Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. For individuals considering or undergoing this treatment, understanding the physical sensations involved can help reduce apprehension. This article clarifies what TMS treatment feels like, detailing sensations and experiences during and immediately after a session.
The Core Sensation During TMS
The primary physical sensation of TMS is often described as a distinctive tapping, knocking, or clicking on the scalp. This feeling arises from the magnetic pulse delivered by the TMS coil, which induces a brief electrical current in the brain’s superficial layers. This induced current can cause small, involuntary contractions in the muscles of the scalp or face directly beneath the coil. These muscle contractions are felt as a pulling, vibrating, or twitching sensation.
Along with the physical sensation, the TMS coil produces a loud clicking sound with each pulse, similar to that of an MRI machine. Ear protection, such as earplugs or headphones, is provided to safeguard hearing. While the sensation can be unusual, most individuals report it is not painful. The intensity of the sensation can vary among people, depending on individual sensitivity and the specific treatment parameters.
The sensation remains localized to the area of the scalp where the magnetic coil is positioned. It does not spread throughout the entire head, nor does it cause a feeling of electricity coursing through the brain. As sessions progress, individuals become accustomed to the feeling, and initial discomfort diminishes.
Common Accompanying Sensations and Immediate Side Effects
Beyond the direct sensation of the magnetic pulse, other physical experiences can occur during or immediately following a TMS session. A mild headache is one of the most commonly reported accompanying sensations. This headache occurs at the treatment site, resolves quickly, and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Localized scalp discomfort or tenderness at the stimulation site is also common. This sensation is mild and results from the repeated tapping of the coil or slight muscle contractions. Some individuals may notice visible facial muscle twitching, particularly around the eyes or jaw, during the pulses. This is a direct consequence of the magnetic field stimulating nerves that control these muscles.
In rare instances, individuals might experience a brief feeling of lightheadedness or dizziness immediately after a session. This sensation is temporary and subsides within a few moments. It is important for individuals to communicate any discomfort or unusual sensations to their TMS technician or healthcare provider, as adjustments can often be made to enhance comfort.
What to Expect During a Session and Beyond
A typical TMS session begins with an initial mapping process to precisely locate the optimal treatment spot on the scalp and determine the appropriate magnetic field strength for the individual. This involves a series of test pulses to identify the motor threshold, which is the minimum magnetic field strength needed to cause a small muscle twitch. Once the setup is complete, the patient sits comfortably in a treatment chair.
Individual TMS sessions last between 20 to 40 minutes, depending on the treatment protocol. Throughout the session, patients remain awake and alert, and many choose to read, listen to music, watch television, or converse with the technician. The environment is designed to be as comfortable as possible.
Following a TMS session, no recovery time is required. Individuals can immediately resume their normal daily activities, including driving themselves home or returning to work. While each session involves distinct sensations, the therapeutic effects of TMS build up over several weeks of consistent treatment, rather than being felt instantaneously after a single session.