Does TMS Therapy Work for PTSD?

Does TMS Therapy Work for PTSD?

Post-traumatic stress disorder is a mental illness that causes symptoms after experiencing a terrifying event. People suffering from this disorder may experience flashbacks, nightmares, and other disturbing thoughts about what happened. The amygdala is a part of your brain that controls emotion. Traumatic experiences affect the amygdala, causing it to overreact to stressful situations. The ventromedial prefrontal cortex (VMPFc) controls the amygdala. When the VMPFc is damaged, the amygdala goes wild. The hippocampus stores memories, but when the hippocampus shrinks, the memories become fuzzy. TMS works for PTSD by stimulating cells in the VMPFc with electromagnetic impulses. This treatment also helps regulate cells in the other regions of the brain associated with PTSD, possibly returning them to normal levels of activity; thus, restoring balance and stability in your mind.

What is PTSD Exactly?

Those who suffer from PTSD characterize it as recurring nightmares, flashbacks, hypervigilance, avoidance behavior, irritability, anger, difficulty sleeping, feelings of guilt and shame, and feeling numb or detached from others. It causes significant distress and impairment in daily functioning.

Scientifically, PTSD is a mental health condition that can develop after exposure to a traumatic event. Symptoms can include flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, and stress. PTSD can be very serious and affect your ability to function normally. There is currently no cure for PTSD, but there are treatments available that can help manage the condition.

TMS Therapy is one of the most commonly used treatments for PTSD. TMS Therapy uses brief electrical pulses to stimulate the brain. The pulses are delivered through electrodes placed on the scalp. The therapy has been shown to be effective in treating symptoms of PTSD, including flashbacks, nightmares, and anxiety.

How Does TMS Therapy Work for PTSD?

TMS therapy, or transcranial magnetic stimulation, is a form of treatment that is often used to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). TMS therapy works by using a magnetic field to stimulate the brain. This can help to relieve symptoms of PTSD and help improve overall mental health. TMS therapy is considered to be safe and effective for treating PTSD. 

Transcranial magnetic stimulation therapy uses magnetic pulses to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. This helps to normalize activity in areas of the brain that may be hyperactive during flashbacks. It has shown promise in treating depression, anxiety, and PTSD.

The exact mechanism behind how TMS therapy works for PTSD is not known. However, researchers believe that the effects of TMS therapy work by increasing blood flow to the parts of the brain that are affected by PTSD. This allows for better oxygenation and nutrient delivery. Additionally, this increases the production of serotonin, which is thought to play a role in regulating mood.

Is TMS Treatment FDA Approved for PTSD?

There is evidence that repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) may be effective at treating PTSD. The Food and Drug Administration has approved rTMS for depression, but this treatment hasn’t been studied specifically for PTSD. It’s important to note that rTMS isn’t considered a first-line treatment for PTSD, and many experts recommend using medications before considering rTMS.

That being said, there are several studies that show positive results with rTMS for PTSD. A 2010 review article found that rTMS was successful in reducing PTSD symptoms. Another study showed that rTMS reduced PTSD symptoms in veterans who were exposed to combat.

In addition, a 2016 study concluded that rTMS was effective at relieving PTSD symptoms. The authors noted that further research is needed to determine if rTMS is an appropriate treatment option for PTSD.

Benefits of TMS Therapy

TMS Therapy is an alternative treatment option for those suffering from PTSD. It’s noninvasive, painless, and easy to administer. Patients report positive results within days of beginning treatment.

TMS works for PTSD by:

• Reducing flashbacks and nightmares
• Increasing sleep quality
• Decreasing anxiety
• Improving mood
• Relieving depression
• Easing insomnia

Furthermore, TMS Therapy is safe, inexpensive, and convenient.

TMS Therapy Works for Depression: 

Depression is a common co-occurring condition with PTSD. Studies show that approximately 50% of veterans diagnosed with PTSD also suffer from major depressive disorder. Depression often occurs alongside PTSD, making it difficult to treat. TMS Therapy is helpful in managing both conditions simultaneously.

TMS Therapy Is Effective for Anxiety:

Anxiety disorders are another common comorbidity found in patients with PTSD. Research shows that up to 75% of individuals with PTSD have some form of generalized anxiety disorder. TMS Therapy is beneficial in reducing anxiety and improving overall well-being.

TMS Therapy Helps Reduce Stress:

Stress is a common trigger for PTSD. A study conducted by the Department of Veterans Affairs showed that nearly half of the participants reported having had a panic attack while receiving TMS Therapy. TMS Therapy reduces stress and improves overall well-being. It may even reduce the risk of developing PTSD.

Begin TMS for PTSD in Philadelphia , PA

Treatment options for TMS in Philadelphia are available at Wave Treatment Centers. We offer free consultations regarding TMS treatments both in-person and online. Contact us today to learn more about TMS therapy for PTSD. We highly encourage you to contact us if you have exhausted other treatment options and want to learn about TMS therapy for PTSD. During one of our free consultations, we can discuss your needs and help you find the best solution for your situation. Call or reach out through our contact form to get started today.

The post Does TMS Therapy Work for PTSD? appeared first on WAVE Mental Health Treatment Centers.