Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive, drug-free treatment that has shown promising results in addressing a variety of mental health conditions. While the technology has been researched for a wide range of applications, including addictions and various neurological disorders, TMS Erina, a Central Coast leading mental health clinic, focuses on treating only those disorders where well-established treatment protocols have been developed.
Treatment-Resistant Depression and Bipolar Depression
One of the primary conditions that TMS is used to treat is treatment-resistant major depressive disorder and bipolar depression. These are cases where patients have not responded adequately to traditional first-line treatments such as antidepressant medications and psychotherapy. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation works by using magnetic pulses to stimulate the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, an area of the brain involved in mood regulation. Studies have shown that around 50-60% of patients with treatment-resistant depression experience significant improvement in their symptoms after a course of TMS, with about one-third achieving full remission.
Anxiety Disorders and PTSD
TMS has also demonstrated efficacy in treating certain anxiety disorders. The right-sided low-frequency TMS is thought to target areas of the brain associated with anxiety, while left-sided high-frequency TMS is used for depression. Patients with generalised anxiety disorder, social anxiety, and even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) have reported reduced symptoms after undergoing treatment.
Other Potential Applications for TMS
While the conditions mentioned above are the primary focus of many clinics, the technology is being actively researched for a variety of other applications.
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
- Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Chronic Pain Management
- Parkinson’s Disease
- Physical Rehabilitation
However, the use of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for these conditions is still considered “off-label” and is not covered by Medicare. TMS Erina will closely monitor the progress of clinical trials, so far there have been some remarkable results in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease.
Please contact our friendly team on (02) 4314 7000 to see how we can help.