Benefits of TMS Therapy Possible in One Week, UCLA Health Study Finds

Navigating the journey of mental health can sometimes feel like an uphill battle, particularly when dealing with depression. So when a treatment claims to offer real relief from depression symptoms in as little as one week, it’s natural to be skeptical. However, according to recent findings reported by UCLA Health, that is exactly what many patients report after repeated transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS). This promising therapy is far from new, but as this recent study confirms, its true benefits are still being discovered by many providers and patients.

CNSL is proud to be a leader in innovative treatment solutions such as TMS. Our staff has been trained to effectively administer TMS therapy, and we’re happy to share more about the potential uses and outcomes associated with TMS.

UCLA Study Reinforces Benefits of TMS Therapy

Researchers with UCLA’s Semel Institute, Neuromodulation Division, examined patient outcomes from repeated TMS over a 13-year period from 2009 to 2022. The study included 708 patients who received TMS for a six-week period. They found that 54% of patients reported a positive “clinical response” to TMS, which is defined as a 50% or greater improvement in mood-related symptoms. Adding to the positive news, one researcher confirmed that patients “generally start reporting improvement within a week of starting treatment.”

This study is certainly not the first to report on the effects of TMS. In fact, a double-anonymized controlled study at Stanford University School of Medicine found TMS helped 79% of participants achieve rapid remission of depression. However, this new UCLA study is one of the most comprehensive ones conducted on TMS so far. It used a method described as “precision TMS” to measure patient outcomes with multiple rating scales, allowing for a highly detailed analysis of TMS outcomes.

What is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)?

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, or TMS, is a non-invasive outpatient procedure. It uses magnetic fields to stimulate specific nerve cells in the brain. The process involves placing a device with a small coil on the head, which sends painless magnetic pulses to the targeted brain area. The procedure does not require medication or anesthesia and allows for an immediate return to normal activities. Depending on the type of therapy, treatment times vary from five minutes to 60 minutes.

TMS has been shown to be highly effective in treating depression, particularly major depressive disorder. TMS was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2008 to treat patients with medication-resistant major depressive disorder. It is currently being investigated for other uses as well, including treatment of addiction, schizophrenia, chronic pain, and more.

Here at CNSL, we believe in providing the best care possible for our patients. That’s why we utilize MagVenture™ TMS systems, a market leader in non-invasive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation. With over 30 years of experience, MagVenture™ offers cutting-edge TMS solutions used in a wide range of applications.

Is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) a Good Choice for Me?

TMS is a very promising treatment option for many patients; however, it may not be right for everyone. Just like any other medical treatment, TMS does come with potential risks and side effects such as headaches, neck pain, tinnitus, high sensitivity to sound, and dizziness. It’s crucial to discuss these with your therapist to understand the benefits and risks associated with this treatment plan.

CNSL Offers Innovative Therapy Solutions, Including TMS

Are you intrigued by the possibility of TMS? Do you want to explore how this innovative treatment could help manage your depression? CNSL is here to guide you on this journey. We invite you to reach out today to learn more about Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation and start the journey to reclaiming your life. Your wellness matters to us, and we are committed to finding the best treatment options for you.