Neuromodulaton Therapy

What is rTMS?

Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) uses pulsing magnetic fields to activate or suppress the brain centres associated with medical and psychiatric disorders, thus treating the brain circuits involved in your condition. Treatment is non-invasive and is usually given as an outpatient, generally alongside medication.

How does rTMS work?

rTMS uses a focused electromagnetic field to stimulate certain areas of your brain. These areas affect your impulses, thoughts, emotions and behaviours, and maybe more or less active in people with depression and other mental health disorders.

The doctor or rTMS technician stimulates the brain by placing a magnetic coil against your scalp in a specific area. The coil delivers magnetic pulses to the brain. Research shows that a full course of rTMS can help the brain return to normal functioning

Who can have rTMS?

Patients who have not responded to medications or psychological therapy (treatment resistance)

  • severe depression
  • Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
  • Anxiety
  • It is also being studied for use in other mental health conditions such as
    • Bipolar affective disorder
    • Generalized anxiety disorder
    • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
    • Substance use disorders
    • Eating disorders (anorexia and bulimia nervosa)
    • Psychotic disorders
    • Autism spectrum illness
Who can’t have rTMS?

Given The High Magnetic Fields Needed, You Are Unable To Receive Rtms Treatment If You Have Any Type Of Non-Removable Metal In Or Near Your Head, Except For Braces Or Dental Fillings. Therefore, People Who Have Any Of The Following Should Not Receive Rtms:

  • Aneurysm clips or coils
  • Stents in the neck or brain
  • Deep brain stimulators
  • Electrodes to monitor brain activity
  • Metallic implants in your ears and eyes
  • Metal shards, shrapnel or bullet fragments in or near the head
  • Facial tattoos with metallic or magnetic-sensitive ink (please discuss with us if in you are unsure)
  • Other metal devices or object implanted in or near the head
What does rTMS involve?

Treatment with rTMS usually involves daily sessions of up to 30 minutes (but often less than 10 minutes), five days a week, for four to six weeks.

What are the possible side effects?

Common side effects

  • Scalp pain during treatment (feels like static electricity and gets better after the first few sessions
  • Headaches
  • Fatigue (feeling tired) after treatment