Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)

A: By applying magnetic fields at varying frequencies, TMS can increase or decrease cortical activity, aiding brain cell repair or the formation of new neural connections. This enables remaining healthy or surrounding brain cells to restore or effectively take over functions lost to stroke damage.

A: Whether patients have suffered an ischaemic stroke (brain infarction) or a haemorrhagic stroke (brain haemorrhage), those exhibiting the following sequelae may undergo TMS treatment following an assessment by a neurologist:

• Motor Impairments: Hemiplegia, limb weakness, difficulty with fine motor finger movements, unsteady gait.
• Speech and Swallowing Impairments: Aphasia (difficulty expressing or understanding speech), dysarthria (slurred speech), dysphagia (swallowing difficulties).
• Cognitive and Mood Impairments: Post-stroke decline in attention or memory, post-stroke depression.

A: Although the first 2 to 3 months post-stroke represent the optimal window for recovery, medical research demonstrates that the brain retains a degree of neuroplasticity even in patients whose stroke occurred longer ago or whose recovery progress has stalled. Combining TMS with dedicated physiotherapy leverages diversified training approaches to help activate surrounding healthy brain cells, further accelerating and improving the patient’s rehabilitation process.

A: Typically, TMS therapy is recommended 3 times per week. After 4 to 6 consecutive weeks of treatment, the attending physician and physiotherapist will perform a comprehensive neurological and motor function assessment to review progress and tailor subsequent plans. Naturally, rehabilitation progress varies from person to person. Patients may choose to discontinue treatment at any time should they experience any discomfort.

A: TMS is normally safe, non-invasive, and requires no anesthesia. Patients remain fully conscious while hearing a clicking sound (volume varies by dosage) and feeling a mild scalp-tapping sensation, which most find pain-free. Daily medications for blood pressure, blood thinners, or diabetes can be continued as usual.

A: TMS is not recommended for individuals with the following conditions:

• Individuals with a history of epilepsy or seizures: Although rare, seizures are the most serious potential side effect of TMS. Patients with a relevant medical history must proactively inform the doctor for a strict safety evaluation.
• Individuals with specific metallic implants: Patients with non-removable, magnetically sensitive metallic or electronic devices installed inside the skull or within 12 inches (approx. 30 cm) of the magnetic coil (e.g. pacemakers, cochlear implants) are not suitable for treatment. (Note: Standard dental fillings are unaffected).