TMS Education Hub
Understand the science behind transcranial magnetic stimulation. Explore interactive brain anatomy, learn how different protocols target specific regions, and see what a typical treatment journey looks like.
How TMS Works
Transcranial magnetic stimulation uses focused electromagnetic pulses to selectively activate or inhibit specific brain regions — without surgery, sedation, or systemic side effects.
Magnetic Pulse
A coil placed on the scalp generates a brief, powerful magnetic field — similar to an MRI — lasting ~200 microseconds per pulse.
Induces Current
The magnetic field painlessly passes through the skull and induces a small electric current in the underlying cortical neurons.
Neurons Fire
The induced current causes neurons to depolarize and fire action potentials, releasing neurotransmitters and modulating brain networks.
Network Effect
Repeated sessions strengthen synaptic connections, normalize dysfunctional circuits, and produce lasting changes in mood and cognition.
Brain Anatomy Guide
Explore the major TMS-relevant brain regions on a 2D anatomical atlas. Click any region to learn its function, clinical significance, and TMS indication. Toggle between lateral (side) and medial (inner) views.
Protocol Academy
TMS protocols differ in frequency, intensity, pulse pattern, and target region. Explore the six major clinical protocols and understand which conditions each is designed to treat.
What to Expect
A typical TMS treatment course spans 6–9 weeks. Here's what your journey looks like from first enquiry to completion.
Consultation & Mapping
Your first visit includes a psychiatric evaluation, review of your history, and motor threshold mapping. The clinician finds the optimal coil position by stimulating your motor cortex and measuring the smallest pulse needed to cause a finger twitch.
Early Treatment Phase
Daily sessions (Monday–Friday) begin. You'll sit in a comfortable chair, the coil is positioned, and you hear a clicking sound with each pulse. Most patients describe it as a mild tapping sensation on the scalp. Sessions last 19–37 minutes depending on the protocol.
Building Response
Many patients start noticing subtle improvements in mood, energy, and sleep around week 3. Some may feel worse before feeling better (an 'initial dip' in weeks 2–3 is normal). Keep attending sessions even if effects aren't yet obvious.
Peak Treatment Window
Maximum clinical response typically develops between weeks 4–6. Your clinician may adjust intensity or pulse count based on your response. Avoid stopping early — the full course is essential for durable remission.
Completion & Assessment
After your final session, your clinician performs a reassessment. If you've achieved remission or significant improvement, you transition to a maintenance or monitoring phase. Partial responders may discuss additional sessions.
Maintenance & Follow-up
About 30–40% of patients experience relapse within 6–12 months. Options include booster sessions (single pulses every few weeks), maintenance protocols, or combining TMS with medication. Regular follow-up is essential for long-term success.
Ready to explore treatment options?
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