TMS therapy [fMRI-guided] for muscular dystrophy

What is muscular dystrophy?

Muscular dystrophy refers to a group of inherited conditions that damage the proteins needed for healthy muscle function.

Over time, these genetic changes weaken muscle fibers and interfere with strength, mobility, and, depending on the type, respiratory or heart function.

Types of MD

There are several recognized types of muscular dystrophy, each with distinct onset patterns and progression rates. The most common include:

• Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD): Typically begins in early childhood and progresses rapidly.
• Becker Muscular Dystrophy (BMD): Similar to Duchenne but with a later onset and slower progression.
• Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy (FSHD): Affects the face, shoulder blades, and upper arms, often appearing in adolescence.
• Myotonic Dystrophy: Can develop in adulthood and is characterized by prolonged muscle contractions (myotonia).
• Limb-Girdle Muscular Dystrophy: Weakens the hips and shoulders, with symptoms appearing in childhood or adulthood.

Causes of muscular dystrophy

Muscular dystrophy is primarily genetic.

Mutations in genes responsible for muscle structure and repair lead to progressive damage and muscle fiber loss.

A family history of MD is the most significant risk factor, though spontaneous mutations can also occur.

Common symptoms of muscular dystrophy

Muscular dystrophy symptoms vary by type but often include:

• Gradual muscle weakness.
• Difficulty walking or frequent falls.
• Enlarged calf muscles or muscle cramps.
• Trouble with fine motor skills.
• Respiratory or cardiac complications in later stages.

How muscular dystrophy is diagnosed

MD diagnosis usually involves:

• Neurological examination to assess strength, reflexes, and coordination.
• Genetic testing to identify specific mutations.
• Blood tests measuring creatine kinase (CK) levels, which rise when muscle tissue is damaged.
• Electromyography (EMG) and muscle biopsy to evaluate electrical activity and tissue health.

Conventional treatment options for muscular dystrophy

While there is no cure, conventional treatments can slow progression and improve quality of life.

Medications and physical therapy

To address symptoms and maintain mobility, physicians often recommend:

• Corticosteroids to help maintain muscle strength and delay complications.
• Heart and respiratory medications to manage cardiac and breathing issues.
• Physical therapy to preserve flexibility, improve balance, and reduce joint contractures.

Assistive devices and supportive care

As MD advances, supportive care helps maintain independence:

• Braces, walkers, or wheelchairs to support mobility.
• Respiratory devices to assist with breathing.
• Occupational therapy for strategies and adaptive equipment that make daily activities easier.

TMS therapy for muscular dystrophy in New York City

Even with standard treatments, many people experience persistent fatigue, muscle pain, or mood changes related to muscular dystrophy.

fMRI-guided TMS therapy offers a non-invasive option to support neurological function and relieve lingering symptoms.

What is fMRI-guided transcranial magnetic stimulation?

TMS is a non-surgical therapy that delivers gentle magnetic pulses to specific areas of the brain involved in movement, mood, and cognitive control.

At Neurotherapeutix, we combine TMS with fMRI-based computational brain mapping to identify disrupted neural pathways and guide treatment with unmatched precision.

The benefits of TMS for muscular dystrophy patients

Research suggests TMS can enhance neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to reorganize and form new connections, helping to improve motor control and reduce fatigue.

A study in Electroencephalography and Clinical Neurophysiology reported that transcranial magnetic stimulation detected delayed central motor conduction in people with myotonic dystrophy, demonstrating how TMS can reveal central nervous system involvement in certain forms of muscular dystrophy

Potential benefits of TMS for all MD types include:

• Better coordination and motor function.
• Reduced muscle pain and stiffness.
• Improved mood and cognitive clarity.
• Enhanced overall quality of life.

How TMS works as a non-invasive treatment for MD

During each TMS session, a specialized coil placed on the scalp sends focused magnetic pulses that stimulate targeted brain regions.

This gentle stimulation encourages healthier communication between nerve cells, helping to restore more normal motor control and reduce fatigue.

What to expect during fMRI-guided TMS therapy

Before beginning treatment, it helps to know how each session works and what you can expect from start to finish with fMRI-guided TMS therapy at Neurotherapeutix.

Initial consultation and evaluation

Your care starts with a thorough assessment to create a fully personalized plan. This visit includes:

• A detailed review of your medical history and current muscular dystrophy symptoms.
• A neurological examination to evaluate muscle strength, coordination, and reflexes.
• fMRI-based computational brain mapping to locate areas of disrupted brain activity and guide precise TMS targeting.

TMS treatment schedule and duration

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

Each appointment lasts about 20–30 minutes, and you can return to your normal activities right away.

Progress is monitored throughout to adjust treatment as needed and maximize results.

Patient comfort, monitoring, and safety

During each session, you’ll sit comfortably while a specialized coil delivers gentle magnetic pulses to targeted brain regions.

Most people feel only a light tapping on the scalp.

Our clinical team continuously monitors your response and comfort, using follow-up imaging and evaluations to track improvements and maintain safety.

IS fMRI-guided TMS therapy right for you?

This therapy may be a good option if you:

• Continue to experience fatigue, muscle pain, or mood changes despite standard muscular dystrophy treatments.
• Prefer a drug-free, non-surgical approach to MD treatment.
• Want a plan tailored to your unique brain activity patterns through advanced fMRI-based computational brain mapping.

Our specialists review your medical history, current therapies, and imaging results to confirm whether fMRI-guided TMS therapy is an appropriate next step.

Start your customized MD treatment plan in NYC

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

Located on Manhattan’s Upper East Side, our clinic is a pioneer in this patented fMRI-guided TMS approach, combining expert neurological care with leading-edge technology to improve motor function, reduce pain, and enhance overall quality of life.

Request an appointment or contact us today to begin your personalized treatment plan and take the next step toward long-term wellness.