Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is an FDA-cleared therapy option for those struggling with treatment-resistant depression. While standard treatment options such as psychotherapy and medications may work for some, they don’t always bring depression into remission.
With TMS, Inland Empire TMS can make long-term depression remission possible by bringing the brain back to its natural function.
This is just a sample of side effects, and each antidepressant may have unique side effects.
And even with these side effects, antidepressants only help roughly 25% of people.
With these downsides, is it any wonder that treatment for major depression is such a fraught, high-stakes topic?
Thankfully, in recent decades, scientists have found a way to target regions of the brain responsible for major depressive disorder.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a procedure that uses external electromagnetic coils to send a magnetic pulse to areas of the brain. It is often also referred to as rTMS — as it utilizes repetitive magnetic pulses.
Unlike electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), TMS is non-invasive, requires no anesthesia, and has virtually no major side effects. And since patients are not drugged up during treatment sessions, they can safely drive home after treatment sessions.
TMS therapy is administered in-office for roughly 40 minutes, 5 days a week, for approximately 6 weeks.
Neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine play a huge role in one’s mood:
These chemicals (and many others such as noradrenaline) can be regulated through precisely targeted brain stimulation.
By stimulating neural pathways in the brain associated with happy brain chemistry, we can strengthen them and build a foundation for a better daily mood.
The brain is not a muscle — but it does work much like one. This is why TMS therapy only works when done through a consistent short-term daily outpatient model. The strengthening of these happy pathways — an inhibition of depressive pathways — is a gradual process.
Over half of people dealing with depression who have tried and failed to get better through medications receive a meaningful response from TMS therapy. And, roughly one-third of those people with positive responses are likely to experience full remission — meaning their symptoms can go away completely.
Though, depression is not that simple. It takes time and a conscious effort to get better.
TMS is found to be much more effective when coupled with psychotherapy. The two therapeutic options work synergistically bringing the greatest chance for a positive outcome.
Through our partnership with KarmaDocs, we are able to provide both TMS and psychotherapy.
If you’re looking to experience the benefits of TMS treatment and finally put your depression into remission, give us a call.
Our team of doctors and clinicians is dedicated to providing you with the best possible care with successful outcomes. And with state-of-the-art TMS technology, treatments for depression have never been better.
If you’re interested in receiving TMS, contact us today! We’d be happy to answer all your questions and guide you through the process.
