TMS Benefits & Side Effects

An extensive body of research supports the effectiveness of TMS treatment. It is particularly effective for patients who experience difficulties achieving their desired outcome with traditional therapies.

Treatment-resistant mental health symptoms can have a negative impact on multiple areas of life, threatening one’s quality of life. Fortunately, clinical studies have demonstrated that of the people who have not observed successful outcomes with oral antidepressants, most of them experience decreased depressive symptoms after TMS treatment.

TMS operates via magnetic fields that stimulate neurons to alter brain activity. This does not require substances to travel through the bloodstream and be metabolized, unlike oral antidepressants (link to med management), Spravato (link), or ketamine therapy (link). Additionally, there is no need for anaesthesia, as possible mild side effects do not cause significant pain. This approach may create a more pleasant experience for the patient

All stimulation is induced external to the skull and as such, there is no sedation required in contrast to electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). As such, TMS is a minimally disruptive procedure. Patients experience no change in consciousness or awareness and can immediately resume daily activities with little to no interruption.

Side effects of TMS are generally short-lived; some only occur during active stimulation.

Muscle twitching, most commonly in the face, is painless but can occur during active stimulation. Muscle fibers in or near the head that are located within the field of the electromagnetic pulse can be activated at the same time as brain stimulation. This may be an unexpected sensation at first, but it is not an indication of an adverse reaction to the treatment.

Some patients report headaches or scalp discomfort at the site of stimulation, though this generally dissipates within a few hours. If necessary, it can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief.

The TMS dip is not a universal experience but may occur for some patients. After a few weeks into treatment, individuals may report an exacerbation of mental health symptoms. This is typically temporary, resulting from the brain's altered neural activity. As treatment sessions carry on, neural pathways adapt to changes and continually adjust, restoring healthy brain activity and providing symptom relief. It is important to be transparent with your clinician during these stages so that ongoing treatment can be reviewed appropriately. We are dedicated to providing the best standard of care and will ensure you remain comfortable throughout your sessions.

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83%

of patients experienced symptom improvement, with 62% achieving full remission after completing TMS.

"was a really supportive and trauma informed place to receive TMS, and I felt much better after treatment. If you are considering TMS I recommend talking to them, they are accessible and easy to connect to, and do a good job explaining the process in a clear way. Thanks to Dr. Simonsen and team!"

"I cannot say enough about Creative Solutions, Dr. Simonsen, his staff, and TMS. I was skeptical but decided to give it a try. They were very thorough in explaining the what's/why's/how's and extremely professional every step of the way. I feel better than I have in YEARS."

"TMS therapy was super helpful, I came to him with severe depression and taking meds that helped very minimally! I was impressed with how quickly I noticed changes with my mental health and my desire to actually want to get up and do things where as before I had zero desire for anything! "

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