TMS Therapy for Fibromyalgia

What Is Fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia is a chronic neurological disorder that causes widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and cognitive difficulties.

Sometimes referred to as “fibro fog,” individuals often experience memory issues and trouble concentrating. This condition impacts the way the brain processes pain signals, often amplifying them and making typical stimuli feel painful.

While fibromyalgia does not cause tissue damage or inflammation, it significantly affects quality of life, often coexisting with other conditions such as anxiety, depression, or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Symptoms of Fibromyalgia

Symptoms can vary in intensity and duration, but common signs of fibromyalgia include:

• Chronic widespread pain on both sides of the body.
• Fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest.
• Difficulty concentrating.
• Mood changes, including depression or anxiety.
• Sleep disturbances.
• Headaches or migraines.
• Sensitivity to temperature, light, and noise.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

While the exact cause of fibromyalgia is unknown, several factors may contribute to this condition, including:

• Genetics: Family history increases the risk.
• Infections: Certain illnesses may trigger or worsen symptoms.
• Trauma: Physical or emotional trauma can contribute to onset.
• Gender: Fibromyalgia is more common in women.
• Co-occurring Conditions: Autoimmune disorders and mood disorders often occur alongside fibromyalgia.

Fibromyalgia Diagnosis and Testing

There’s no single test for fibromyalgia. Diagnosis typically involves:

• Reviewing symptoms and medical history.
• A physical examination.
• Ruling out other conditions through blood tests or imaging.
• Evaluating pain sensitivity across specific tender points.

Early diagnosis is key to managing fibromyalgia effectively and avoiding unnecessary medications or procedures.

TMS for Fibromyalgia

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive therapy that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate specific brain regions.

At Neurotherapeutix, we enhance this process with functional MRI (fMRI) guidance, allowing us to precisely identify and treat the neural circuits involved in pain perception.

TMS therapy has shown promise in modulating the brain’s pain-processing centers, improving mood, and promoting neuroplasticity, which is especially helpful for clients with fibromyalgia who also experience depression or anxiety.

Fibromyalgia Symptoms That May Improve With TMS

fMRI-guided TMS therapy may help reduce:

• Chronic pain and tenderness.
• Fatigue and lack of energy.
• Depressed mood and anxiety.
• Brain fog and cognitive impairment.
• Sleep disturbances and unrefreshing sleep.

Results can vary, but many clients report gradual and sustainable symptom relief over time.

What To Expect During TMS Therapy

Your fMRI TMS therapy journey begins with a consultation and psychiatric evaluation. Our team will assess your symptoms, medical history, and goals to determine if you’re a candidate for treatment.

Each session typically lasts 20 to 30 minutes. A full course of treatment typically consists of 20 to 30 sessions, spanning 4 to 6 weeks. Our fMRI-guided approach ensures that we deliver stimulation with precision and consistency, adjusting the plan as needed to achieve optimal results.

TMS is safe and well-tolerated with minimal side effects. Some clients experience mild scalp discomfort or headaches during initial sessions, which typically subside. We continuously monitor your progress and adjust your treatment using follow-up brain scans and symptom tracking.

Is TMS Therapy Right for You?

TMS therapy is a promising option for individuals with fibromyalgia who:

• Have not found relief through traditional treatments.
• Struggle with medication side effects.
• Experience co-occurring depression or anxiety.
• Prefer a non-invasive, drug-free approach.

Our experienced team will assess your specific needs and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to support long-term improvement.

Experience Personalized Fibromyalgia Care in NYC

At Neurotherapeutix, we specialize in treating fibromyalgia through our advanced fMRI-guided TMS therapy.

As pioneers in this treatment option, our evidence-based approach focuses on targeting the neurological roots of chronic pain, helping you reclaim a better quality of life.

Are you ready to learn if TMS is right for you? Request an appointment today to get started and learn more about our services.