rTMS therapy at Norwest and Carlingford
MRI-Guided TMS therapy is now available at Mind Connections Specialist Health
Services.
Mind Connections Specialist Health Services Psychiatrists are at the forefront of non-medication treatment and neuroscience research.
Both premises, Carlingford and Norwest, offer MRI-guided Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy. This ground-breaking
approach signifies a major advancement in precision, personalization, and diagnostic capabilities, providing new hope and improved
outcomes for patients who do not wish to have medication or if they are having difficulties with side effects.
Elevating our commitment to providing the most advanced treatment options, Mind Connections Specialist Health Services utilises
intermittent theta-burst stimulation (iTBS) for rTMS therapy. iTBS is a form of rTMS that delivers treatment in optimised intensities and
shorter intervals, significantly improving therapeutic outcomes compared to traditional r TMS protocols. This advanced technique allows
for a more efficient and effective treatment process by reducing the duration of sessions while maximising therapeutic outcomes, namely
recovery and well-being.
Here’s a concise breakdown of rTMS and its benefits, particularly with advanced intermittent theta-burst stimulation (iTBS).
rTMS utilises magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain, focusing on areas affected by psychiatric and neurological conditions. This stimulation aims to reactivate or rewire the brain cells (neurons), potentially relieving symptoms of various disorders. Repetitive
magnetic pulses are why this technique is termed “repetitive” Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS).
“rTMS was a game-changer for me. Medication was no help. I was desperate, angry, frustrated; too… depressed about
everything. I was sceptical about rTMS, but I thought that I had nothing to lose. I am so glad I had it. It worked! No side effects.
I wish I had it earlier.”
At Mind Connections Specialist Health Services, iTBS—an advanced r TMS therapy—is employed. iTBS differs from traditional rTMS by offering optimised intensities and shorter intervals between stimuli. This innovation increases therapeutic effectiveness, making
treatments more efficient and reducing the treatment duration.
“I suffered years of Depression, trying various treatments and medications. rTMS changed my life. Within weeks, my mood and
energy improved significantly. It’s amazing how effective it has been. I don’t feel helpless anymore.”
One of the most appealing aspects of rTMS is its non-invasive nature. Treatments can be safely administered in an office setting without
the need for anesthesia or sedation. This accessibility significantly improves the quality of life for patients, enhancing their productivity
and providing an opportunity for some to wean off long-term medications.
“I was so depressed, I refused to fly interstate to see my grandchild. Nothing made me happy. My husband said rTMS is a
miracle. I improved everyday, and I felt like myself again by the end. The greatest gift was visiting my grandson. My family is so
surprised and happy. I am back.”
Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) represents a significant advancement in treating psychiatric and neurological
conditions. Its application across a wide range of disorders showcases its versatility and efficacy as a non-invasive neuromodulation
technique. These psychiatric and neurological conditions include, but not limited to:
- Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Auditory Hallucinations in Schizophrenia
- Addiction Disorders
“I couldn’t work. I had migraines, tummy aches and what not! I saw that many specialists. Finally, I saw the Psychiatrist. rTMS
was a breakthrough. No this and that test! The RESULTS were incredible. I am back at work. I don’t have to see specialists
anymore!”
Furthermore, rTMS shows promise in treating neurological conditions such as:
- Early to moderate stages of Alzheimer’s Dementia
- Parkinson’s Disease, particularly when freezing becomes an issue
- Stroke rehabilitation
- Multiple Sclerosis
Additionally, research into r TMS has suggested potential benefits in improving sleep quality by triggering slow sleep waves, helping
patients achieve a better night’s rest.
rTMS, especially with the advanced application of iTBS, offers a hopeful alternative for individuals with treatment-resistant conditions. Its
broad applicability across both psychiatric and neurological disorders—coupled with its non-invasive nature—makes it a compelling
option for those seeking effective treatment without the drawbacks associated with traditional medication therapies.
FAQs
rTMS uses an electromagnetic coil positioned on the side of the patient’s head. The magnetic field created stimulates the electrical impulses generated by the nerve cells (neurones).
In the case of Depression, the biological basis suggests that under-active regions of the brain responsible for regulating emotions have a significant role in the aetiology of Depression. By stimulating the prefrontal cortex with rTMS, the positive mood circuits within the limbic system, the brain’s emotional centre, are activated and this promotes recovery from depressive disorder and other psychiatric conditions. Repeatedly stimulating the nerve cells helps the frontal areas of the brain (responsible for thinking and impulse control) to regulate the deeper, emotional areas of the brain. This has an anti-depressant effect.
