TMS for Migraines

During a migraine attack, changes occur in the brain, including the activation of certain nerves and blood vessels, leading to the release of inflammatory chemicals and hormones. This triggers a cascade of events, causing intense pain and associated symptoms experienced by migraine sufferers.

TMS for Migraines: The Evidence

Multiple recent scientific studies show that transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) could be a worthwhile treatment for migraines. One study, including 40 patients, showed a noticeable reduction in pain levels, how often migraines happened, how long they lasted, and how much medication was needed to ease the effects.

Another study backed up the positive effects on frequency and severity, saving migraine sufferers about 8 days of pain every month! Yet another study agrees that TMS is effective for migraines, but further research is recommended.

As TMS is a relatively new treatment option for this kind of disorder, more research is needed. However, research done so far shows promising results for migraine sufferers who haven’t found relief in other ways.

How Does TMS Work for Migraines?

TMS uses magnetic pulses to stimulate specific areas of the brain. It’s gaining attention as a potential solution for migraines, especially for those who have not found relief with traditional medications.

It’s been successful for migraines with aura, migraines without aura, and even shows promise to prevent migraines from happening as often. Here’s how transcranial magnetic stimulation in migraine treatment works.

Magnetic Pulses Stimulate the Brain

TMS works by delivering brief magnetic pulses through a coil that’s placed on the scalp. These pulses generate electrical currents, which stimulate nerve cells in specifically targeted areas of the brain. If you suffer from migraines, this stimulation can alter brain activity, helping to reduce the severity and frequency of migraine attacks.

Targets Areas Involved in Migraine Pain

The magnetic pulses specifically target brain regions involved in pain processing and something called “cortical spreading depression”, a phenomenon linked to migraine attacks. By modulating the activity in these areas of the brain, TMS can help alleviate migraine symptoms during an attack and even lower your chances of having another attack soon after.

What type of TMS is used to Treat Migraines?

There are two main types of TMS used for treating migraines:

• Single-Pulse TMS (sTMS): Single-pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation involves delivering a single magnetic pulse to the back of the head (occipital cortex) at the onset of a migraine aura or headache.
• Repetitive TMS (rTMS): Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation involves delivering repeated magnetic pulses to specific areas of the brain, typically the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex.

In some cases, other areas of the brain may also be targeted, such as the visual cortex or motor cortex, depending on the person’s specific migraine patterns. Notably, both sTMS and rTMS have shown effectiveness in treating migraines, but rTMS is commonly accepted as the better choice for migraine prevention treatment.

Who is Eligible for TMS Migraine Treatment?

Adults with Chronic Migraines

TMS is particularly suitable for adults who experience chronic migraines. If you’re having migraines for 15 or more days per month, it counts as chronic, and you’ll be an excellent candidate for TMS therapy.

Individuals with Medication-Resistant Migraines

If you haven’t responded well to traditional migraine medications, TMS could be an effective alternative treatment. Since TMS doesn’t involve medication, it avoids the side effects associated with many migraine drugs.

Patients Without Metal Implants in the Head

Candidates for TMS should not have any metal implants in or around the head, as the magnetic pulses can interfere with these devices. If you have cranial plates or implants, you’ll need to look at other options.

Migraines with Aura

If you experience a visual, sensory, or speech disturbance before the onset of the headache, you may be eligible for sTMS (single-pulse TMS). You may be a suitable candidate for a TMS machine for migraine treatment at home, but this should be verified by a doctor first.

Who Should Not Use TMS?

TMS is almost always safe, but it’s not suitable for everyone. If you have a history of seizures, you are not a good candidate for TMS. You’ll also need to take extra care and even avoid TMS with certain psychiatric conditions, as it may aggravate your condition. Moreover, if you have any implanted medical devices (like pacemakers), you should avoid TMS, as it can interfere with your implants.

In general, pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid TMS. While there’s no indication that the magnetic field can cause damage to a foetus, not enough research has been done to be sure.

It’s important to undergo a thorough evaluation by a healthcare provider to make sure you’re a good candidate before looking into TMS therapy for migraines.

Benefits of Choosing TMS for Migraines

Non-Invasive (No Surgery Required)

TMS is a non-invasive brain stimulation procedure, meaning it doesn’t involve surgery or anaesthesia. Patients can have treatment sessions without pain, worry, or disruption to their daily lives. If you have anxiety about medical procedures, TMS also sets your mind at ease, as it’s not an invasive treatment.

Minimal Side Effects Compared to Medications

Unlike many migraine medications, TMS has very few side effects (if any). Common side effects include scalp discomfort, mild light-headedness, or a slight headache during or after the session, but these are still rare and have all been reported as very mild.

Can Complement Other Treatments

TMS can be used with other migraine treatments, including pain treatment, providing a complementary approach to managing the condition. Those who wish to ease up on medication doses or who want to try something natural along with other approaches can easily add TMS to their treatment without it interfering with other treatments.

Are there any Negative Effects of TMS Treatment for Migraines?

TMS for migraine headaches is generally considered a safe and non-invasive treatment. Common side effects of TMS are mild and temporary, and may include scalp discomfort and mild headaches during or after the session.

Rarely, patients might experience lightheadedness or tingling sensations. Serious side effects are uncommon and are more likely to happen to those with underlying conditions. For example, seizures can happen in people who have a history of seizures or neurological conditions. It can also trigger an episode in those with bipolar disorder.

Patients who undergo long-term rTMS sessions have a chance of developing hearing problems if their ears aren’t properly protected. This is due to the loud clicking noise that happens during treatment, but is preventable with some care.

The Full TMS Treatment Process

Initial Evaluation

Before being able to undergo TMS treatment of migraine headaches, you’ll need a thorough assessment by a medical professional. After reviewing your medical history and doing a physical examination, they’ll be able to give you the go-ahead if you’re a good candidate for TMS treatment.

4 to 6 Weeks of TMS Sessions

The standard TMS treatment regimen spans 4 to 6 weeks, with daily sessions lasting 20 to 40 minutes each. However, your TMS provider will tailor your treatment plan to suit your needs. There’s no one-size-fits-all option, even though the TMS procedure is generally the same for everyone.

Post-Course Sessions (If Necessary)

After the initial treatment phase, you may need follow-up sessions if you haven’t yet reached your goals. Treatments can be scheduled on an “as needed” basis, but it depends on the patient.

What to Expect in a TMS Session

During a TMS session, you will sit comfortably while a TMS technician places the magnetic coil on your scalp. The device emits clicking sounds and gentle tapping sensations as it delivers magnetic pulses. Sessions are generally well-tolerated, so you can relax, read, or listen to music during the treatment.

TMS for Migraines FAQs

It’s important to note that these are average figures. Individual results can vary. Some people may experience significant improvement, while others may not respond as well to treatment.

Contact

Contact Neuralia TMS today and take a step toward a quieter, more fulfilling future.

Phone: 08 6230 3996 / 08 6230 2231

Email: info@neuralia.com.au / referrals@neuralia.com.au

Healthlink ID: neuralia