top of page

TMS

About Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Therapy
​

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a noninvasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain to improve symptoms of depression. TMS is typically used when other depression treatments haven't been effective. This treatment for depression involves delivering repetitive magnetic pulses, so it's called repetitive TMS or rTMS. 

​

During an rTMS session, an electromagnetic coil is placed against your scalp near your forehead. The electromagnet painlessly delivers a magnetic pulse that stimulates nerve cells in the region of your brain involved in mood control and depression. It's thought to activate regions of the brain that have decreased activity in depression.

TMS at Our Office
Frequently Asked Questions

  • When is TMS used?

    • While medications and psychotherapy are considered first line treatments for depression, some patients do not experience progress while using these treatments. This is called treatment resistant depression, which TMS has been FDA approved as a treatment for since 2008.​

  • Who administers treatment?

    • Dr. Reddy will prescribe and monitor your treatment at all times. Staff specifically trained by Dr. Reddy for TMS treatment will be placing the coil in a location determined by Dr. Reddy onto your head and applying a dose, also determined by Dr. Reddy. Staff will always be in the room with you during your treatment session.​

  • What is treatment like?

    • Many patients have positive experiences during TMS treatment. During treatment, you will be asked to sit on a chair as a coil is placed on your head. You will feel frequent tapping sensations on the side of your head for about 19 minutes. Most patients choose to watch TV during this time. ​

  • Do I need to be hospitalized for TMS?

    • TMS is an outpatient procedure, and you will not need to be hospitalized. Our staff will work with you to find a time that you are available for treatment every day over a four week period. After the procedure, it is safe to drive yourself home or to work.​

  • How can I start TMS treatment?

    • Please contact our office if you are interested in TMS treatment. Dr. Reddy will first meet with you to answer any questions and analyze your medical history.​

​

Training & Experience

  • Dr. Reddy attended a fellowship training at Duke University centered around TMS treatment and safety protocols​

​

  • Dr. Reddy has over 9 years of experience in TMS therapy

Equipment & Machine

  • Our office uses the MagStim TMS machine. The MagStim machine is among the most modern and up to date machines used for TMS treatment today, utilizing EMG tracking to ensure proper dosing and coil placement.

​

Insurance & Payment

  • Our office will work with you to establish a payment plan. Many insurances cover TMS therapy, and if you would like more information, you can click below or call our office at 559-366-4186

​

More Information:​
​

At your mapping appointment:

​

The goal of this appointment is for your doctor to identify the best place to place the coil on your head and the best dose of magnetic energy for you. You will be asked to sit at a reclining chair, and Dr. Reddy will move a small coil around your head, looking for various movements in your hand that correspond to the magnetic stimulation. During this process, you will feel small taps on your head. This appointment usually lasts about 1 hour.​

​

At your first treatment:

​

Dr. Reddy will have communicated with staff about the precise location and dosing found at your mapping appointment. The staff will have you sit in a reclining chair, and position a treatment coil on your head in this location. You will feel a frequent tapping sensation against your head during this time. Each treatment will last about 19 minutes. You might feel a headache or some tingling or twitching of facial muscles. This is normal, and should decrease over time. 

​

Treatment Course and Schedule:

​

After your initial mapping appointment, you will have about 36 treatment sessions spread over a 6 week period. After about 18 treatments, Dr. Reddy will reassess your mapping and your progress, and will determine if the mapping procedure should be repeated, as the location on your brain can move. Treatments will occur every day for about 4 weeks, and then they will be tapered over the remaining 2 weeks.​

​

Risks and Contraindications:

​

As with any medical procedure, TMS has some risks and side effects. Side effects include mild headaches which dissipate over time. Dr. Reddy will consult with you and collect thorough medical history to rule out any contraindications that might result in more serious side effects. 

bottom of page