Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) is a modern, non-invasive, and safe treatment for a range of psychiatric and neurological disorders. It works by using magnetic fields to modulate the activity of specific brain regions. During the procedure, a magnetic coil is placed on the scalp, delivering magnetic pulses to targeted areas of the brain without the need for surgery or anesthesia. These pulses help regulate and restore the function of neural circuits involved in various disorders.
The history of rTMS dates back to the 1980s, when transcranial magnetic stimulation was first introduced as a diagnostic tool in neurology. Beginning in the 1990s, research demonstrated that repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) could produce lasting therapeutic effects. In 2008, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved rTMS for the treatment of treatment-resistant major depressive disorder, and since then its clinical applications have expanded considerably.
Main Clinical Applications of rTMS
Major depressive disorder, particularly treatment-resistant depression
Anxiety disorders
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Chronic and neuropathic pain
Migraine
Tinnitus
Post-stroke rehabilitation
Selected movement and neurological disorders
Certain eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa, as part of supportive and emotional regulation protocols
Advantages of rTMS
Non-invasive and does not require anesthesia
Minimal and transient side effects (such as mild headache or temporary scalp discomfort)
Patients can resume their normal daily activities immediately after treatment
Treatment parameters can be precisely tailored to each patient's individual needs
Each rTMS session typically lasts 20 to 40 minutes, during which the patient remains fully awake and alert. The number of treatment sessions depends on the patient's condition and clinical response, but generally ranges from 10 to 30 sessions.
Today, rTMS is recognized as one of the most advanced neuromodulation techniques, bridging the fields of psychiatry and neuroscience. Rather than relying solely on medication, it directly targets dysfunctional brain networks, offering a promising and innovative approach to the treatment of psychiatric and neurological disorders.
At present, rTMS services are available at the Neuropsychiatry Clinic of Farabi Educational and Medical Center, under the supervision of Dr. Fariba Kakari, MD (Fellowship in Neuropsychiatry), with treatments administered by Dr. Sara Ahmadi. Specialized rTMS services are provided to residents of Kermanshah Province and referred patients.
Service Hours:
Saturday to Wednesday, 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM