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rTMS : An innovative, non-invasive treatment for depression & other psychiatric conditions
Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) is a therapeutic method that uses magnetic fields to regulate the activity of specific areas of the brain. It combines the technological applications of magnetic fields with the latest advances in neuroscience, offering an alternative option when traditional treatments are not sufficient.
The brain communicates through electrical signals between nerve cells. With rTMS, an external magnetic field influences these signals, leading to desirable therapeutic effects for the patient—for example, improving mood.
rTMS is an internationally approved treatment for depression and other disorders. It has been recognized by the FDA (2008) and is supported by the American Psychiatric Association (2010). It is also applied in Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and the European Union.
Research shows that:
A large percentage of patients who did not respond to medication or psychotherapy show improvement with rTMS.
One in three patients achieves complete remission.
The treatment is painless and does not require hospitalization or anesthesia.
The most common side effects are mild and temporary (e.g., headache or slight discomfort on the scalp).
rTMS does not negatively affect memory, concentration, weight, or sexual function.
Certified
Safe
Non-invasive
Medication-free
Effective
The treatment takes place in a specialized clinical setting, without the need for laboratory tests or recovery time. Patients can return to their daily activities immediately after each session.
Session duration: 20–40 minutes
Frequency: 5 times per week
Total sessions: 20–36 (over 4–6 weeks)
Most patients require around 30 sessions for significant improvement, while in some cases maintenance sessions are recommended to sustain the results.
In selected cases, an “accelerated protocol” may be used, involving two or more sessions per day.
Weeks 1–2: Adjustment to the process, with initial therapeutic effects for some patients.
Weeks 3–4: First signs of improvement in mood, sleep, and energy levels. Continued progress for those who responded early.
Weeks 5–6: Significant relief of symptoms and improved daily functioning.
After treatment: Many patients remain symptom-free for months or even years, with the possibility of maintenance sessions when needed.
rTMS is a non-invasive therapy, in which magnetic pulses are used to stimulate nerve cells in the areas of the brain which control mood and are often less active in patients with depression. Repeated stimulation of this part of the brain has been shown to have antidepressant effects in patients suffering from depression.
rTMS influences electrical brain activity through a pulsed magnetic field. This magnetic field is created by passing quick current pulses through a coil of wire. The coil of wire is encased in plastic and placed close to a client’s scalp in order for the magnetic field to be focused on particular areas of the brain. The magnetic field can safely penetrate the scalp and skull without pain, to create a current in targeted brain cells. Because this stimulation is given at regular intervals it is referred to as repetitive TMS, or rTMS.
A further look at our website will provide you with more detailed information on rTMS therapy. Our team is available for any further information and assistance; our aim is to help you take better care of yourself.
rTMS is internationally approved for depression (e.g., U.S. FDA 2008) and is used in many countries with a significant number of scientific studies highlighting its effectiveness. Research shows that:
Many patients who have not responded to medication or psychotherapy improve with rTMS.
One in three achieve complete remission of symptoms.
The treatment is painless and does not require hospitalization or anesthesia.
The most common side effects are mild and transient (e.g. headache or slight discomfort in the scalp).
It does not adversely affect memory, concentration, weight or sexual function.
Duration and Frequency: Each rTMS session lasts approximately 20 to 30 minutes. To achieve a meaningful result, 20 to 35 sessions are usually required, which are performed daily or a few times a week, over a period of 4 to 7 weeks.
The Procedure: The treatment is painless, requires no anesthesia and has no side effects that will affect your daily life. In the 1st session, special measurements are taken to adjust the intensity of the magnetic stimulation.
The rTMS treatment is applied to the outer side of the brain by a special machine with a coil that produces a magnetic field. The coil is placed appropriately without pressure to activate localized & targeted areas of the brain of interest. During the session, you may feel a slight bump on the head, which does not cause pain.
The basic rTMS treatment protocol takes 19-37 minutes. One session per day, 5 times per week, over a period of 4-6 weeks.
In some cases we choose :
Week 1-2: Adjusting to the process, first changes and improvements.
Week 3-4: Improvement in mood, sleep and energy levels.
Week 5-6: Significant relief of symptoms and better daily functioning.
After treatment: Several remain symptom-free for months or even years, with the possibility of booster sessions where needed.
Not everyone follows the same improvement course. The total number of required rTMS sessions depends on:
Severity of depression : mild/moderate/severe
Severe or treatment-resistant depression often needs the full protocol with 30-36 sessions or more.
Comorbidities : The coexistence of more than one disorder may delay the outcome, although in some cases treatment works more comprehensively e.g. depression with anxiety
Individual brain neurobiology
As with any form of treatment e.g. drugs, each person’s brain responds differently to rTMS, so the timing is individualised.
Adherence to the treatment schedule
Attending all scheduled sessions maximizes effectiveness.
Frequently skipping sessions may slow progress or require additional treatments.
rTMS is indicated for the treatment of major depression in adult patients who have not responded or improved adequately with antidepressant medication during their current depressive episode. In addition in recent years it has received indications for other disorders such as obsessive-compulsive disorder, addictions, neuropathic pain. Your doctor will assess your overall clinical history, including medications and other treatments to decide if rTMS therapy is right for you.
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