Innovative treatment in neurorehabilitation – neuromodulation of pain
Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) is a safe, effective, and non-invasive treatment aimed at improving the function of brain areas that are either underactive or overactive.
This is achieved through a coil connected to a specialized stimulator, which gently delivers repetitive magnetic pulses to the appropriate brain control centers for movement, pain, and emotion — previously mapped by a certified physician.
Application
The treatment is applied to the surface of the head. It requires neither anesthesia nor sedation, does not affect other body areas, and has significantly fewer side effects compared to pharmacological treatments.
Therapeutic Effects (Top-Down Approach):
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Facilitates cortical reorganization by releasing neurotransmitters that help the brain ignore persistent or intense pain stimuli.
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Activates neuroplasticity and improves both new and existing neural connections.
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Increases blood flow to the stimulated brain regions.
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Reduces spasticity.
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Improves motor function.
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Enhances cognitive function.
Procedure
The rTMS therapy is conducted in a medical office setting. A standard treatment protocol includes 20 to 30 sessions, lasting 15–45 minutes each, over a six-week period. During the session, the patient sits comfortably in a specialized chair, remains alert and relaxed, and may listen to music or watch TV.
Side Effects
The most commonly reported side effect is mild headache due to stimulation of the superficial cranial muscles. This effect is temporary and usually resolves after the first few sessions.
Indications – Who is a good candidate for rTMS?
Initially approved by the FDA in 2008 for the treatment of Major Depression, rTMS has since been used for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). Recent clinical studies show its effectiveness in patients with:
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Chronic neuropathic pain (due to Stroke, Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson’s Disease)
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Fibromyalgia (chronic widespread muscle pain)
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Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)
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Migraine, tinnitus
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Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Contraindications
This therapy is not suitable for patients with a history of seizures, metal implants in the central nervous system, cochlear implants, or a pacemaker.
Training Certificates for the Therapy
