Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, or TMS, is a non-invasive form of brain stimulation that has gained popularity in recent years for its effectiveness in treating various mental health conditions.
But where did this revolutionary treatment originate from?
A Brief History of TMS Experiments into bioelectricity began in the 1700s when scientists discovered how our nerves carry and transmit electrical current through the body’s nervous system. Early findings also showed that our tissues are an electrical source. Still, it wasn’t until the 1870s that researchers discovered that low-intensity electrical stimulation to the brain could reveal neural pathways, providing a detailed map to help understand what parts of the brain were responsible for specific motor functions.
Magnetic fields were used in the 1960s for muscle stimulation, but it wasn’t until the mid 1980s that the first TMS device was created. At that time Dr. Barker and his colleagues invented the initial type of TMS in Sheffield, UK. (1). By the 1990s, TMS was being used in studies to treat depression with positive results, leading to FDA approval in 2008 for that diagnosis, followed by mainstream acceptance of the treatment for depression.
Since then, TMS has been continually refined and studied for its potential in treating various mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, and chronic pain. In 2008, the US Food and Drug Administration approved TMS as a treatment for major
depressive disorder, further solidifying its place in the field of mental health care.
Today, TMS is considered a safe and effective treatment option for those who have not
found relief from traditional therapies such as medication or talk therapy. By targeting
specific areas of the brain involved in mood regulation, TMS is able to alleviate symptoms of mental illness and improve overall quality of life for many individuals.
As research continues to uncover the full potential of TMS, it is clear that this innovative treatment is here to stay and will continue to play a significant role in the future of mental health care.
Is TMS Right for you?
A Child and Family Psychiatry is a proud provider of TMS in Ohio. We have helped many patients to overcome depression, even when other treatments have
failed.
Please our TMS Coordinator, Elizabeth today at 614-314-2291 or send us an email at [email protected] to learn more about Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for depression.
