History of TMS Therapy

NeuroStar transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. The treatment targets areas that are involved in mood regulation and cognition. TMS is a targeted approach to treatment. Unlike antidepressant medications that affect the whole body, TMS focuses on specific parts of the brain.

TMS is effective for treatment-resistant depression and as a complementary therapy for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). The history of TMS therapy offers insight into how different areas of scientific study can lead to treatment breakthroughs.

Early Discoveries

Magnetic fields have been used for medical therapy since the 18th century. Early experiments by Luigi Galvani helped Michael Faraday discover electromagnetic induction in 1831. This discovery led to Faraday equipment, which blocks external electric fields and electromagnetic radiation. Faraday’s discoveries influenced medical researchers to try magnetism in treatments.

It was not until the 1980s that scientists developed TMS and began using it in clinical research. At this time, Anthony Barker and his colleagues at the University of Sheffield in England made significant contributions to TMS development. In 1985, Barker’s team showed that the electromagnetic fields generated by a magnetic coil could stimulate the brain and influence brain cell activity. This development was important in the history of TMS since it provided a scientific demonstration of how electromagnetic fields could cause changes in your brain without surgery or an implant.

The Effects of TMS Therapy

TMS has some side effects, most of which are typically short-lived and minor. The most common side effect you might experience is scalp discomfort, including tingling and headaches, where the magnetic coil is placed. These symptoms usually resolve after the first week of treatment and generally do not occur in the following weeks of therapy.

In the recent history of TMS, the therapy has proven effective in reducing the symptoms of treatment-resistant depression. TMS has also shown a response and remission rate that compares well to other established treatments without the side effects associated with medications. Clinical data shows that 63 percent of people who are treated with NeuroStar TMS have lower symptoms of depression, and some people experience complete remission.

When combined with TMS therapy, psychotherapy (talk therapy) could also provide further improvements to your treatment. However, traditional psychotherapy often requires lifestyle changes that could be difficult when you are experiencing depression symptoms, such as fatigue and loss of interest. TMS could offer relief from your symptoms and help you make the necessary changes for psychotherapy.

TMS for Other Conditions

The FDA has cleared NeuroStar TMS for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD), and as an adjunctive therapy for OCD.

Call Us Today To Learn More About the History of TMS

It may be challenging to find an effective treatment for MDD, and OCD. Without treatment, these conditions could significantly alter your lifestyle and reduce your quality of life.

We encourage you to call our office and schedule a consultation. The proven history of TMS therapy has significantly impacted mental health care. We can help you understand how TMS therapy could reduce your symptoms.