How TMS works.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a noninvasive, FDA-cleared therapy that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate specific areas of the brain.
During a TMS session you sit comfortably while a physician positions a magnetic coil over your scalp. The coil generates repetitive magnetic pulses that reach the targeted brain regions.
You may feel a light tapping sensation and hear clicking sounds from the device. The procedure is painless and requires no sedation or anesthesia.
Success rates
Research shows promising results, particularly for depression. According to the National Institutes of Health, about 40% of people with treatment-resistant depression reach remission after a full course of TMS, and 60–70% report a noticeable improvement in symptoms. Results vary from person to person.
Safety
There are no known long-term negative side effects, and TMS is generally well tolerated. The most common effects are mild headache, scalp discomfort, lightheadedness, and facial twitching during treatment. They typically ease as treatment progresses or when settings are adjusted.
Other brain therapies
TMS is part of a broader group of brain stimulation treatments, including electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), deep brain stimulation (DBS), magnetic seizure therapy (MST), low-intensity focused ultrasound (LIFU), and vagus nerve stimulation (VNS). The methods differ, but all aim to modulate brain activity.
Common questions.
What is TMS therapy?
TMS is a noninvasive, FDA-cleared therapy that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate specific areas of the brain. It aims to modulate neural activity and communication in targeted regions.
When is TMS used?
At Westside NeuroTherapeutics we specialize in treatment-resistant depression: when antidepressant medication is not effective enough and other therapies haven’t relieved symptoms.
How does TMS work?
Unlike medications that alter brain chemistry, TMS directly activates or inhibits neural activity in specific circuits. This aims to shift brain patterns associated with conditions like depression toward healthier states. It also promotes neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to form new connections, which is thought to contribute to symptom improvement.
What is a treatment protocol?
A typical plan involves multiple sessions over 4–6 weeks. Each session lasts 25–30 minutes, and you can drive yourself and resume normal activities right afterward. Before your first session, our technicians calibrate the magnetic energy level to your needs. Please remove magnetic objects such as jewelry, wallets, and hair clips beforehand.
Ask whether TMS
may be right for you.
If conventional treatments haven’t helped, a free consultation is a good place to start.