Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) uses gentle magnetic pulses to induce changes in the brain, effectively treating depression, anxiety, and other brain health conditions. Research, combined with Brain Health Hawaii’s clinical experience treating thousands of individuals—ranging from children as young as 3 years old to adults in their 90s—clinically demonstrates that TMS can be effective across all age groups.
What Is TMS Therapy?
TMS therapy stimulates brain cells to modify their behavior. It is clinically proven to treat brain health conditions and has FDA approval for depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
How It Works
During a TMS therapy session, a magnetic coil rests on the forehead, emitting targeted magnetic pulses. These gentle pulses penetrate 2-3 centimeters into the brain, stimulating neurons to restore balance in brain activity. TMS machines function similarly to MRI machines but on a smaller scale.
What Does TMS Feel Like?
TMS therapy is a non-invasive procedure that is well-tolerated by most individuals. Many patients report feeling relaxed and calm during their sessions. A light tapping sensation may be felt initially but typically subsides as the process becomes familiar. Importantly, TMS does not require sedation, allowing patients to resume their daily activities immediately after treatment.
Is TMS Safe? →
TMS therapy is associated with minimal to no side effects, particularly compared to many antidepressant medications. A small percentage of patients may experience mild discomfort, headache, or fatigue during or after treatment, but these sensations are usually brief and diminish after the 1-2 weeks of treatment.
Safety Considerations
- Conductive Metal Implants: Patients with conductive metal implants near the head—such as aneurysm clips, stents, deep brain stimulators, or metallic ear/eye appliances—are not candidates for TMS therapy. However, braces and dental fillings are safe.
- Seizure History: For children with a history of seizures, consultation with a medical provider is essential. At Brain Health Hawaii we have expertise in adjusting the dosing of TMS, which has been used safely in people with seizures.
TMS Therapy May Benefit Your Child or Teen If:
TMS therapy may be a valuable option if your child has been diagnosed with any of the following:
- ADHD
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Bipolar Disorder
- Autism
- Concussion
TMS for Children & Teens: What Does the Research Say? →
Multiple studies affirm the safety and effectiveness of TMS therapy across age groups.
The evidence for the safety of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) in treating children and adolescents is generally positive, suggesting that TMS is a relatively safe and well-tolerated treatment option for this age group.