TMS Treatment
Transcranial Magnetic StimulationTMS treatment is a non-invasive, medication-free treatment, proven effective in treating depression, addiction and many other conditions
How it works
The innovative treatment uses pulsing magnetic fields to activate or suppress the brain centres associated with a number of medical and psychiatric disorders.
RTMS – Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation
The type of treatment we provide here at Smart TMS is called repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS). It’s called this because the magnetic treatment coil turns on and off quickly and repetitively.
To keep things simple, we refer to the treatment as TMS throughout this website and our downloadable brochure.
TMS treats the actual brain circuits involved in your condition, rather than flooding the brain with chemicals.
The treatment stimulates the brain and causes ‘neuroplasticity’ – which is the brain’s ability to mend and build connections between the nerve cells. In the case of depression, for example, the left side of the prefrontal cortex is stimulated, restoring the connections to help it work as it should, without the symptoms of depression.
TMS Compared to Other Treatments
Antidepressants
Oral Medication
✓ NICE approved
✓ Non-invasive
✓ Outpatient treatment
✘ Ongoing recovery
Side Effects:
Anxiety
Diarrhoea
Dizziness
Fatigue
Headache
Increased appetite
Migraine
Nausea
Nervousness
Sleep problems
Sexual dysfunction
Weight gain
ECT
Electrical current to induce seizure
✓ NICE approved
✘ Invasive
✘ In patient treatment
✘ Hours/days to recover
ECT Side Effects:
Confusion
Disorientation
Headaches
Intense sleepiness
Jaw ache
Anaesthetic complications
Memory loss
Muscle aches
Nausea
TMS
Non-invasive magnetic fields
✓ NICE approved
✓ Non-invasive
✓ Outpatient treatment
✓ Immediate recovery
TMS Side Effects:
Mild headaches
Mild fatigue
1 in 50,000 risk of seizures
Conditions treated
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation FAQs
What is repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation?
Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (or rTMS for short) is a treatment for depression, OCD, addictions and other mental health conditions. The rTMS machine emits high frequency magnetic pulses to the area of the brain known to cause the condition. The treatment stimulates the brain and causes ‘neuroplasticity’ – which is the brain’s ability to mend and build connections between the nerve cells. In the case of depression, for example, the left side of the prefrontal cortex is stimulated, restoring the connections to help it work as it should, without the symptoms of depression.
Are rTMS and dTMS the same treatment?
Although similar, rTMS is more commonly used. Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, which is the NICE approved treatment offered by Smart TMS, uses a magnet referred to by professionals as a ‘figure of eight coil’. This coil emits repetitive magnetic pulses to the specific area of the brain known to cause the condition being treated. In comparison, deep Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, or dTMS, uses a ‘H-coil’, which looks like a helmet. The magnetic pulses are emitted on a much larger area of the brain as it’s much less focused than rTMS.
How much does rTMS cost?
rTMS is a private treatment and costs vary depending on the condition being treated. An average course of treatment for depression with Smart TMS costs £3,000 and you’re likely to need two courses in total.
How long do the effects of rTMS treatment last?
As research progresses, it becomes clear that with regular maintenance sessions (one per month) the benefits of rTMS treatment are on-going. Life can have its ups and downs, but once we know that rTMS treatment works for you, we can offer “top up” sessions whenever you feel you need a boost.
Can rTMS cause memory loss?
There is no research to suggest that rTMS can cause memory loss. rTMS is often compared to ECT (electroconvulsive therapy), which does cause memory loss, however rTMS is non-invasive and only targets a small area of the brain, as opposed to inducing seizures like ECT does.
Is rTMS effective for anxiety?
Yes – rTMS is effective in the treatment of Generalised Anxiety Disorder. At Smart TMS, we know that depression and anxiety often go hand in hand, so we offer all patients the opportunity to be treated for both at the same time. Other providers can charge separately for courses of depression and anxiety treatment, but we include them in the same treatment session, saving you (in some cases) thousands of pounds.
What is the success rate of rTMS therapy?
“Success” is hard to quantify when talking about mental health. The remission rate of patients suffering with depression at Smart TMS is 49%. This means 49% of patients are no longer clinically depressed following rTMS treatment. Our research shows that 56% patients also see a significant change in their mood, even if they don’t officially reach the point of remission, which helps them lead a happy and fulfilling life with fewer symptoms than before.
Is TMS Treatment Right For You?
Try our quick 2 minute questionnaire to see whether TMS treatment could help.
What our Patients Say
I’m still not taking any medication – This is the longest I have been off of anti-depressants in almost 10 years and I am loving not having to cope with the side effects.
Jaime-Lee
For the first time in 24 years, I now feel significantly better; I’ve even started playing guitar and spending time outdoors again. My brain feels alive and the sadness I’ve felt for so long has been replaced by a smile
Gary
At the time I received treatment I was my lowest. TMS was a life changer for me. I am certain it saved my life.
George