TMS Therapy for Ataxia

What is Ataxia?

Ataxia is a neurological condition that affects balance, coordination, and voluntary muscle control.

Ataxia is not a disease itself, but rather a symptom of underlying neurological issues. It may develop suddenly or progress over time, depending on its underlying cause.

Symptoms of Ataxia

Ataxia symptoms can vary depending on the underlying cause, but they typically involve issues with movement and motor control and often include:

• Unsteady gait or difficulty walking in a straight line.
• Poor coordination of the hands, arms, or legs.
• Slurred or slow speech (dysarthria).
• Difficulty with fine motor tasks like writing or buttoning clothing.
• Involuntary eye movements (nystagmus).
• Trouble with swallowing (dysphagia).
• Muscle tremors or jerky movements.
• Fatigue due to physical strain or mental effort from focusing on motor tasks.

Symptoms may appear gradually or suddenly, and they can worsen over time depending on the cause.

At Neurotherapeutix, our team works to understand the root of your condition and build a personalized plan using the latest tools in neuromodulation, including fMRI-guided TMS therapy.

Types of Ataxia

Ataxia can present in different forms. Understanding the subtype helps determine the most effective course of care.

Hereditary vs. Acquired Ataxias

• Hereditary ataxias are inherited genetically and often manifest in childhood or early adulthood.
• Acquired ataxias develop due to stroke, injury, infection, or neurological disease and can occur at any age.

Episodic, Spinocerebellar, and Friedreich’s Ataxia

• Episodic ataxia is characterized by sudden, brief episodes of imbalance or slurred speech.
• Spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA) involves the gradual degeneration of the cerebellum and typically runs in families.
• Friedreich’s ataxia is a rare inherited form that also impacts the heart and spine.

Causes of Ataxia

Several factors can lead to cerebellar dysfunction and ataxia, including:

• Genetic mutations (as in SCA or Friedreich’s ataxia).
• Stroke or traumatic brain injury.
• Multiple sclerosis.
• Long-term alcohol use.
• Tumors or infections affecting the brain.
• Post-viral conditions or autoimmune diseases.

Understanding what causes ataxia is the first step in identifying the right treatment pathway.

What Is fMRI‑Guided TMS for Ataxia?

fMRI-guided TMS therapy uses advanced brain imaging to pinpoint areas of cerebellar dysfunction and deliver magnetic pulses with unmatched precision.

Unlike traditional TMS, which applies a standardized approach, our method creates a personalized brain map to identify the exact regions that need support.

This high-resolution imaging allows us to:

• Identify impaired neural connections.
• Monitor changes in real time.
• Adapt treatment plans for the best possible outcomes.

How We Use TMS to Target Cerebellar Dysfunction

Ataxia often stems from abnormalities in the cerebellum, a part of the brain responsible for coordination and balance. With fMRI-guided TMS, we stimulate these specific cerebellar regions to restore disrupted communication pathways.

Treatment is designed to:

• Enhance coordination and balance.
• Improve fine motor control.
• Support neuroplasticity and functional compensation.
• Slow progression in degenerative cases.

Evidence Supporting TMS Therapy for Ataxia

Research continues to show promising results in the use of TMS for cerebellar ataxia and related conditions.

• A study conducted by UCLA demonstrated that TMS therapy improved gait and postural control in patients with spinocerebellar ataxia.
• According to a case study published in MDPI, it also reduced tremors and motor instability after targeted cerebellar stimulation.
• TMS therapy has also been linked to enhanced coordination and cognitive function in individuals with post-stroke ataxia.

At Neurotherapeutix, we stay at the forefront of clinical research, combining science and compassion to support your recovery.

Why Choose fMRI-Guided TMS Therapy?

Most TMS clinics use a “one-size-fits-all” approach.

Neurotherapeutix is the only clinic in the United States offering patented fMRI-guided TMS therapy.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• We precisely target the root cause of your symptoms.
• Treatment is completely non-invasive and medication-free.
• Our team includes world-renowned specialists in neuromodulation.
• We offer compassionate care tailored to your condition and goals.

What to Expect During Treatment

Each TMS session at Neurotherapeutix is quick, comfortable, and customized to your brain. You’ll sit in a relaxed setting while magnetic pulses are directed to specific areas of cerebellar dysfunction identified through fMRI.

Generally, here’s what you can expect with us:

• Sessions last 20 to 30 minutes.
• Most patients undergo 20 to 40 sessions of treatment.
• No anesthesia or recovery time needed.
• You can return to daily activities immediately.

Your progress is monitored regularly, and treatment is adjusted as your brain responds.

Is TMS Right for You?

fMRI-guided TMS may be ideal for you if:

• You’ve been diagnosed with ataxia and are seeking non-invasive options.
• Traditional treatments or medications have provided limited relief.
• You want a personalized therapy plan supported by advanced imaging.
• You’re ready to explore a forward-thinking solution grounded in science.

Whether your ataxia is genetic, acquired, or related to another neurological condition, our team will help determine if fMRI-guided TMS therapy is the right path forward.

Start Your Treatment Journey for Ataxia Relief with Neurotherapeutix in NYC

Ataxia can feel isolating, but you don’t have to manage it alone.

At Neurotherapeutix, we offer real solutions backed by science and compassion. Our fMRI-guided TMS therapy and other specialized medical services provide new hope by targeting the exact brain circuits affected by your condition.

Let us help you regain balance, coordination, and confidence. To get started,  request an appointment today.