TMS therapy [fMRI-guided] for multiple sclerosis

What is multiple sclerosis?

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disease of the central nervous system in which the immune system attacks myelin, the protective sheath surrounding nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord.

This immune response creates inflammation and scarring that disrupts the brain’s ability to communicate with the rest of the body.

Because of this ongoing immune activity, MS is considered a chronic neurological condition that can affect movement, sensation, vision, and cognition.

What causes multiple sclerosis?

The exact cause of MS remains unknown, but research published in the National Library of Medicine points to a combination of factors:

• Immune system dysfunction that targets myelin.
• Genetic predisposition, with certain gene variants increasing risk.
• Environmental triggers, including viral infections and low vitamin D.
• Lifestyle factors such as smoking which can worsen progression.

Common symptoms of MS

Multiple sclerosis symptoms vary widely and can change over time, often flaring during relapses and easing during periods of remission.

Early warning signs

• Numbness or tingling in the limbs
• Blurred or double vision
• Unexplained fatigue
• Balance problems or dizziness

Progression of symptoms

• Muscle weakness or spasticity
• Difficulty walking or coordinating movements
• Chronic pain or sensory disturbances
• Cognitive changes, including memory or concentration problems

How multiple sclerosis is diagnosed

Neurologists use a combination of clinical evaluations and imaging tests to confirm MS, including:

• Neurological examination to assess reflexes, coordination, and sensory function.
• MRI scans to detect lesions or areas of demyelination in the brain or spinal cord.
• Lumbar puncture to analyze cerebrospinal fluid for signs of inflammation or immune activity.

Treatment options for multiple sclerosis

While there is no cure for MS, a combination of therapies can slow disease progression and manage symptoms.

Traditional therapies

Conventional multiple sclerosis treatment focuses on slowing disease activity, managing flare-ups, and preserving function. Common therapies include:

• Disease-modifying medications to reduce the frequency of relapses and limit the formation of new lesions in the central nervous system.
• Corticosteroids to shorten the duration and severity of acute attacks by decreasing inflammation.
• Physical therapy to maintain mobility, improve balance, and strengthen muscles affected by MS.
• Occupational therapy to support everyday activities, conserve energy, and adapt the home or workplace for long-term independence.

Alternative and non-invasive therapies to treat MS

Many patients also explore options to complement medical treatment, such as:

• Exercise programs tailored to balance and endurance.
• Mind-body approaches, such as yoga or meditation, can help reduce stress.
• fMRI-guided TMS therapy to improve neurological function and ease cognitive or mood-related symptoms.

fMRI-guided TMS therapy for multiple sclerosis

Even with traditional treatments, many people with multiple sclerosis continue to experience fatigue, cognitive changes, or mood disturbances.

At Neurotherapeutix, fMRI-guided transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy offers a non-invasive option to support brain health and relieve persistent symptoms.

By combining functional MRI imaging with advanced TMS technology, our specialists can pinpoint areas of disrupted neural activity and deliver magnetic stimulation with unmatched precision.

This personalized approach encourages the brain to build new connections and restore healthier communication pathways affected by MS.

What is transcranial magnetic stimulation?

Transcranial magnetic stimulation is a non-surgical therapy that uses gentle magnetic pulses to stimulate targeted areas of the brain involved in movement, mood, and cognition.

A specialized coil placed on the scalp creates brief magnetic fields, which in turn activate nerve cells beneath the surface.

At Neurotherapeutix, every TMS plan is guided by detailed fMRI-based computational brain mapping, allowing us to identify exactly where brain activity has been disrupted by multiple sclerosis and tailor treatment to each patient’s unique needs.

The benefits of fMRI-guided TMS therapy for MS

fMRI-guided TMS therapy provides several potential benefits for individuals living with multiple sclerosis, including:

• Improved cognitive function, such as better focus, memory, and processing speed.
• Reduced fatigue and enhanced energy levels throughout the day.
• Better mood regulation, easing anxiety or depression linked to MS.
• Strengthened neural connections, supporting long-term brain health and improved quality of life.

Because the therapy is drug-free and non-invasive, clients can return to normal activities immediately after each session, making it a convenient complement to standard MS treatments.

What to expect during TMS therapy

At Neurotherapeutix, every TMS treatment plan is designed around your specific symptoms and brain activity.

From the first appointment to your final session, our team provides clear guidance and careful monitoring to ensure a safe and comfortable experience.

Initial consultation and evaluation

Your care begins with a detailed consultation that includes:

• A full review of your medical history and multiple sclerosis symptoms.
• A neurological examination to assess motor skills, cognition, and overall brain function.
• fMRI-based computational brain mapping to precisely identify areas of disrupted activity and create a fully personalized TMS treatment plan.

TMS treatment schedule and duration

Most clients receive 20–40 sessions of TMS therapy, scheduled three to five times per week over four to six weeks.

Each session lasts about 20–30 minutes, and you can return to normal activities immediately afterward with no downtime.

Patient comfort, monitoring, and safety

During each session, you’ll sit comfortably while a specialized coil delivers focused magnetic pulses to targeted areas of the brain.

Most people feel only a light tapping sensation on the scalp.

Our clinical team continually monitors your response and adjusts treatment as needed, using follow-up imaging and progress checks to ensure the best possible results.

Is fMRI-guided TMS therapy right for you?

fMRI-guided TMS therapy may be an excellent option if you have been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis and continue to experience symptoms such as fatigue, cognitive changes, or mood disturbances despite standard treatments.

This non-invasive approach is designed for individuals who:

• Have completed or are currently following a conventional MS treatment plan, but still struggle with lingering neurological symptoms.
• Prefer a drug-free, non-surgical therapy that targets the brain’s specific areas of dysfunction.
• Want a personalized plan based on advanced fMRI-based computational brain mapping, ensuring treatment is tailored to their unique brain activity patterns.

Our specialists will review your medical history, current therapies, and imaging results to determine whether fMRI-guided TMS therapy is the right next step in your MS care.

Start a customized MS treatment plan with Neurotherapeutix in NYC

If you’re ready to explore advanced, non-invasive care for multiple sclerosis, the team at Neurotherapeutix is here to help.

Located on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, our clinic provides a welcoming environment where you can receive expert neurological care and leading-edge therapies designed to improve cognitive function, reduce fatigue, and enhance quality of life.

Request an appointment or contact our team today to begin your customized MS treatment plan and take the next step toward long-term wellness and restored confidence.