The Benefits of TMS for Fibromyalgia
At Philadelphia Integrative Psychiatry, we now offer Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for a variety of mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, addiction, ADHD, and others. For our adult patients with ongoing depression, this innovative treatment is covered by insurance. Recently, exciting research has highlighted the potential benefits of TMS for fibromyalgia, a chronic pain condition.
In this blog, we delve into the latest findings on TMS for fibromyalgia, incorporating insights from key studies such as "Efficacy of TMS in Fibromyalgia" (2022) and "Long-term Effects of TMS on Pain and Fatigue in Fibromyalgia Patients" (2023).
How Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) Works
TMS is a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. While traditionally used for treating mental health conditions, recent studies have shown that TMS can also help alleviate symptoms of fibromyalgia. This chronic condition is characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and tenderness in localized areas. TMS works by targeting specific areas of the brain involved in pain perception and regulation, providing relief for patients who have not responded to other treatments.
Research Findings on TMS for Fibromyalgia
Pain Reduction
A 2022 study titled "Efficacy of TMS in Fibromyalgia" demonstrated significant pain reduction in fibromyalgia patients undergoing TMS treatment. Participants reported a notable decrease in pain intensity after several weeks of treatment, with some experiencing relief comparable to that achieved with medication. This study highlighted TMS as a promising alternative for managing chronic pain in fibromyalgia.
Improvement in Quality of Life
The 2023 study "Long-term Effects of TMS on Pain and Fatigue in Fibromyalgia Patients" explored the broader impact of TMS on patients' quality of life. Beyond pain reduction, patients reported improvements in fatigue levels, sleep quality, and overall daily functioning. These findings suggest that TMS not only alleviates physical symptoms but also enhances overall well-being and daily life for fibromyalgia sufferers.
Sustainability of Benefits
Further research has examined the sustainability of TMS benefits over time. Patients who continued with periodic maintenance sessions reported sustained improvements in pain and fatigue, indicating that TMS could offer long-term relief. This ongoing benefit highlights the potential of TMS as a viable, long-term treatment strategy for managing fibromyalgia symptoms.
Protocols Used in TMS for Fibromyalgia
In treating fibromyalgia with Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), the primary motor cortex (M1) and the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) are often targeted. The M1 is crucial for pain modulation, and high-frequency TMS (10-20 Hz) administered to this area can reduce pain perception. The DLPFC, associated with mood regulation and cognitive functions, also benefits from high-frequency TMS, helping alleviate depression and anxiety commonly seen in fibromyalgia patients. Typical TMS protocols involve high-frequency stimulation (10-20 Hz) at an intensity of 80-120% of the motor threshold, with each session lasting 20 to 40 minutes. The treatment course generally consists of daily sessions, five days a week, over 4 to 6 weeks. Maintenance sessions, which may occur weekly to monthly, help sustain the benefits and are adjusted based on the patient's ongoing symptoms and response to treatment.
Getting in Touch with Dr. Danish and his Team
At Philadelphia Integrative Psychiatry, we are excited to offer TMS as part of our repertoire of treatment options. We continue to stay on top of the latest research related to TMS so we can provide the best quality care in a safe manner. Our holistic and integrative approach ensures that we consider all aspects of our patients' well-being in developing personalized treatment plans. If you or a loved one are seeking support for fibromyalgia or similar conditions, please text or call 610-999-6414 to learn how we can help.
For More Information on TMS
The following blogs by Dr. Danish focus on TMS for a variety of conditions and patient populations:
Discover just how powerful TMS is for depression.
Learn whether patients preparing for TMS should stay on their antidepressants that are not doing enough.
Explore the potential of TMS for patients with seizure disorders.
Find out about accelerated TMS treatment for severe depression that can be completed in under 5 days!
Read about how TMS can lead to neuronal growth and plasticity.
Understand the safety of TMS for depression during pregnancy.
