
What Is TMS and How Does It Work?
The brain constantly sends out electrical impulses. By targeting specific areas of the brain using magnetic impulses, it’s possible to change the way you feel. Activating those cells in the brain helps restore the natural balance of neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and serotonin.
Manuel Astruc, M.D., has helped thousands of people throughout his more than 25 years of practice in Saratoga County. Now, he brings a new option to the area as the only TMS provider in the county.
What to Expect with TMS Therapy in New York
We determine patients’ brain network activation patterns before, during, and after treatment to monitor how the brain is changing.
Consultation
We want to help lift the burden of depression. First, we need to take a little time to get to know you and determine if TMS will be a good match for you. During a TMS consultation, we will review your medical history, symptoms, and past and current treatments.
TMS has a proven response rate of 50% to 70% in patients who failed to respond to medications.
First Appointment: Mapping Location and Motor Threshold
Your first appointment will last a little longer than typical sessions because we need to calibrate the device. During the first treatment session, we will ask you to remove anything that might interfere with the magnet, such as jewelry.
From there, we will determine the best possible placement of the device, so it can send magnetic pulses to precise locations in the brain. The tool is like a helmet that contains magnetic coils.
As we proceed, we will work to determine the threshold of stimulation that works best for you. To accomplish this, we send multiple pulses to the device, using increasing intensity. Once your fingers or hand start twitching, we know the appropriate threshold and can begin treatment.
Ongoing TMS Treatment
While receiving treatment, you may hear clicking or tapping, but we provide earplugs to help muffle the sounds. You may also feel a tapping sensation on your head that may be a bit uncomfortable; however, you should not feel any pain.
This noninvasive modality doesn’t cause seizures or require any electrodes or anesthesia. You will safely remain awake and alert throughout the process, and you can drive immediately afterward.
Ongoing Care
TMS Treatment Options
Is TMS Therapy Safe?
Noninvasive
FDA-Approved
Drug-Free
How Long Does TMS Treatment Last?
Relief Is Just a Phone Call Away
Frustrated that medication and psychotherapy isn’t helping your symptoms? We can help. Manuel Astruc, M.D. & Associates is the only TMS provider in Saratoga County.
Call our office today at 518-583-7410 to find out if TMS is right for you.