Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)

Integrated Neurology Services

Neurology Specialists & Sleep Specialists located in Alexandria, VA & Lorton, VA

If you experience depression that doesn’t respond well to medications or psychotherapy, the board-certified neurologists at Integrated Neurology Services, with locations across Northern Virginia in Alexandria, Falls Church, and Lorton, also serving the Vienna, VA, community, offer another solution. They use transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to diminish depression symptoms and enhance your quality of life. Call the office nearest you to schedule an evaluation, or use the online booking tab today.

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) Q & A

What is transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)?

TMS is a noninvasive treatment for depression that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerves in the brain, easing continuous sadness and other troublesome symptoms. If traditional depression treatments like medicine and counseling haven’t worked, your Integrated Neurology Services specialist may recommend TMS for symptom relief.

Is TMS right for me?

Your Integrated Neurology Services provider completes a comprehensive physical exam and psychiatric evaluation to determine if you’re a candidate for TMS. They assess your overall physical health and discuss your medical history, medications, lifestyle habits, and more.

During a psychiatric evaluation, your specialist asks questions about your thoughts, mood, emotions, and behavior patterns.

Symptoms of depression include:

Hopelessness
Extreme or ongoing sadness
Thoughts of suicide
Guilt
Shame
Feeling worthless
Social isolation
Anxiety
Loss of interest in favorite activities
Substance misuse
Sleep changes
Body weight fluctuations

You might also need blood tests or additional diagnostic testing that allows your neurology specialist to tailor a treatment best suited to your needs.

What should I expect during my treatment?

During TMS treatment at Integrated Neurology Services, a provider places an electromagnetic coil against your scalp. The painless coil delivers magnetic pulses to nerves in your brain responsible for mood control. You relax in a reclining chair and wear ear plugs during treatment, which may last 40-60 minutes. You can expect to hear tapping or clicking sounds during TMS.

What happens after TMS sessions?

After undergoing TMS treatment, there’s no downtime, so you can resume typical daily activities right away. Temporary mild side effects may include headaches, scalp tenderness, tingling, or lightheadedness.

To work effectively, TMS requires a series of treatment sessions, often five times a week for four to six weeks.

Symptoms of depression may improve over the next few weeks. After you complete TMS, your provider may suggest ongoing treatment of psychotherapy or medication. If depression resolves for a period of time but reemerges, your specialist may recommend repeating a series of TMS sessions. They help you manage your condition to achieve long-lasting symptom relief.

Call Integrated Neurology Services or use the online booking tool today to learn if transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is right for you.

Featured