TMS Treatment for Acute Spinal Cord Injury

What Is an Acute Spinal Cord Injury?

An acute spinal cord injury is a condition that occurs when the spinal cord is suddenly damaged. This is most often due to trauma like a fall, car accident, or sports injury.

The damage interrupts communication between the brain and body, potentially resulting in paralysis, sensory loss, or impaired autonomic function.

Acute SCI is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment to minimize long-term neurological impairment.

Symptoms of an Acute Spinal Cord Injury

Symptoms of acute SCI vary based on the injury location and severity, but may include:

• Loss of movement or coordination below the injury site.
• Numbness or altered sensation.
• Difficulty breathing (for cervical injuries).
• Bowel or bladder dysfunction.
• Muscle spasms or weakness.
• Chronic pain or tingling sensations.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

Acute spinal cord injuries are most often caused by:

• Motor vehicle accidents.
• Falls, especially in older adults.
• Sports injuries or diving accidents.
• Acts of violence (e.g., gunshot or stab wounds).
• Underlying conditions like tumors or infections.

Risk increases with age, high-impact activities, or certain health conditions that affect bone density or stability.

Diagnosis and Testing Methods

Diagnosing an acute SCI typically involves:

• A neurological exam to assess sensory and motor function.
• MRI or CT scans to visualize spinal cord compression or injury.
• Electrophysiological tests to evaluate nerve signal conduction.
• Blood tests to rule out infection or systemic causes.

Early diagnosis is crucial for stabilizing the injury and determining the appropriate treatment plan.

Can TMS Help With Acute Spinal Cord Injury Symptoms?

While traditional rehabilitation focuses on the body, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) targets the brain.

At Neurotherapeutix, we use fMRI-guided TMS therapy to precisely identify and stimulate the brain regions responsible for motor control, pain perception, and emotional regulation.

This technology-driven approach supports neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to rewire itself after injury, offering new hope for functional improvement, especially when paired with physical therapy.

Evidence-Based Benefits of TMS Therapy

TMS therapy may help clients with spinal cord injuries by:

• Reducing neuropathic pain.
• Enhancing motor cortex activation.
• Supporting muscle control and coordination.
• Improving mood and emotional resilience.
• Stimulating recovery in partially preserved pathways.

Though not a cure, TMS therapy is a promising complement to existing treatments, particularly for clients with persistent neurological symptoms of an acute spinal cord injury.

A Promising Non-Invasive and Drug-Free Treatment Option

fMRI-guided TMS therapy is:

• Non-invasive: No surgery or needles required.
• Medication-free: Ideal for clients with drug sensitivities.
• Well-tolerated: Minimal side effects, such as mild scalp discomfort.
• Personalized: Each session is guided by functional imaging for precision and accuracy.

What To Expect During TMS Therapy

Your treatment begins with an in-depth consultation and brain scan. Our specialists use fMRI imaging to map out the neural circuits that require stimulation.

TMS sessions are typically:

• 20–30 minutes long.
• Conducted 5 times per week for 4 to 6 weeks.
• Monitored closely for safety and effectiveness.
• Adjustable in real time based on clinical progress.

Our expert team continuously tracks your response and makes refinements as needed.

Symptoms That May Improve With TMS Therapy

TMS may support recovery in clients with acute SCI by helping to relieve:

• Neuropathic pain or burning sensations.
• Spasticity or muscle tightness.
• Depression or anxiety post-injury.
• Cognitive fog or difficulty focusing.
• Motor weakness.

While individual outcomes vary, many clients report gradual improvement in symptoms and enhanced day-to-day functioning.

Is TMS Therapy Right for You?

fMRI-guided TMS therapy may be a good fit if you:

• Experienced an acute spinal cord injury and continue to have symptoms.
• Seek alternatives to invasive procedures or long-term medication.
• Want to enhance your rehab outcomes through brain-based therapies.
• Are interested in a safe, personalized, and non-invasive solution.

We work closely with you to build a treatment plan that complements your existing recovery efforts.

Visit an Acute Spinal Cord Injury Specialist in New York

At Neurotherapeutix, we combine compassion and advanced neuroscience to deliver leading-edge care for clients with acute spinal cord injuries.

 As the only clinic in the U.S. using our patented fMRI-guided TMS technology, we’re uniquely equipped to support your journey toward recovery.

Are you ready to explore your options? Request an appointment or contact us today to learn more about our personalized approach to spinal cord injury care.