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By Mayo Clinic staff
During transcranial magnetic stimulation
Transcranial magnetic stimulation is usually done on an outpatient basis in a doctor's office or clinic. There are different ways to perform the procedure. Techniques may change as more is learned about the most effective ways to use transcranial magnetic stimulation.
Here's what generally will happen for your first appointment:
- Your first treatment may last about one to two hours. You'll be taken to a treatment room and asked to sit in a reclining chair. The machine makes a loud clicking sound, so you may be given earplugs to wear during the procedure.
- An electromagnetic coil is placed against your scalp on an area near your forehead, often on the left side. To produce the stimulating pulses, the electromagnetic coil is switched off and on repeatedly, sometimes up to 10 times a second. This results in a tapping or clicking sound that usually lasts for a few seconds, followed by a pause. You'll also feel a light tapping sensation on your forehead. This part of the process is called "mapping."
- Your "motor threshold" will be determined. This is the minimum amount of energy needed to make your fingers or hands twitch. The coil is adjusted until the right setting is found.
- After this, your treatment begins.
Most treatment sessions will occur like this:
- While you're sitting in a chair with the magnetic coil placed against your head, the machine is turned on and you'll hear clicking sounds and light tapping on your forehead. You should wear earplugs.
- You'll be awake and alert.
- Some people find the tapping painful, so tell the medical staff if you're uncomfortable.
- Each treatment session lasts about 40 minutes.
After the procedure
Transcranial magnetic stimulation generally requires multiple treatment sessions. Most people require five treatment sessions a week for four to six weeks. After each treatment with transcranial magnetic stimulation, you can go about your normal daily activities.
