Living with depression is difficult enough without also worrying about whether the treatments to help you will be uncomfortable. When you finally hear about a newer treatment such as transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), it is natural to ask whether the process will be painful or stressful.
TMS is designed with patient safety and comfort in mind. It is a noninvasive procedure that typically does not require recovery time. If you have ever wondered, “Do TMS treatments hurt?” you may be relieved to know that many people describe the experience as painless, with only mild sensations that usually fade quickly.
TMS is an FDA-approved treatment most often used for people with major depressive disorder whose symptoms have not improved enough with medication. The treatment delivers gentle magnetic pulses to the areas of your brain associated with mood control, with the intention to stimulate nerve cells and affect brain activity.
Most people find TMS therapy mild and easy to tolerate, and the sensation often becomes less noticeable as sessions continue. Unlike with medication, nothing enters your bloodstream, which means TMS typically does not cause systemic side effects. Many individuals who ask whether TMS treatments are painful express relief when learning that the majority report little to no discomfort.
Your first TMS session will take a little longer because the provider needs to map out the right area of your brain to target and adjust the device for your comfort. After that, most sessions take approximately 20 to 40 minutes. The therapy itself involves sitting in a chair and having a helmet-like gadget placed on your head.
The most common side effect is temporary scalp tingling or mild discomfort during the session, but this usually goes away within minutes after the device is removed. Some people experience a mild headache, but it is generally short-lived and less intense than medication side effects. There is no sedation involved, so you can drive home or return to work immediately.
Individuals who ask if TMS therapy hurts are often relieved to find that the treatment is safe, effective, and designed to be as comfortable as possible. Because you remain awake and alert during the session, you do not need to change your schedule for recovery time. Over several weeks, many people report changes in mood and improvements in depression symptoms.
It is natural to be concerned about pain when considering a new treatment. Fortunately, TMS is considered safe and well-tolerated, and many people do not report significant physical discomfort because of the therapy. By learning what the treatment involves and what to expect, you can make an informed decision about whether TMS may be a comfortable option for you. Many people who have asked, “Do TMS treatments hurt?” have shared experiences of improvement in their lives.
If you would like to learn more about whether TMS is right for you, please contact our office. Our team is here to answer your questions, guide you through the process, and discuss whether this treatment may be suitable for your needs. At Memorial Park Psychiatry, we strive to provide care that prioritizes both your comfort and well-being.
Contact us for a consultation.