TMS Therapy for Migraines: 5 Key Questions Answered

Migraines are more than just headaches; they’re a neurological condition that can be debilitating. In fact, migraine ranks among the top causes of disability worldwide. While many migraine medications are available, not everyone finds relief. Not to mention side effects can be just as frustrating as migraines themselves.

This has led researchers and clinicians to explore innovative alternatives like transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy for migraines, something we specialize in at Serenity Mental Health Centers. TMS is a drug-free treatment originally developed for mental health conditions like depression and anxiety. It’s already FDA-approved for mental health conditions, especially for improving depression symptoms in people with major depression. Now it’s showing promise for migraine relief.

Here are five key questions about TMS therapy for migraines, blending education, science, and real hope for chronic pain sufferers.

1. What is TMS Therapy and How Does It Work?

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) uses focused magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in targeted regions of the brain. During a session, an electromagnetic coil placed against the scalp delivers rapid pulses. These pulses generate small electrical currents that help regulate brain activity.

Originally developed for treating mental illnesses such as depression, anxiety disorders, and bipolar disorder, TMS is a safe and proven way to treat migraines without the use of medication or anesthesia. A session typically lasts 20–30 minutes and is well tolerated, with patients remaining awake and alert throughout.

TMS stimulates areas of the brain associated with mood regulation, like the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex. This “training” helps underactive areas function more effectively. Over time, this can result in noticeable improvements in mood, focus, and energy.

With this in mind, TMS has been widely used for mental health conditions. However, researchers have discovered its ability to influence brain networks involved in chronic pain and sensory processing, thus making it a promising treatment for migraines as well.

2. How Does TMS Help Treat Migraines?

Migraines often involve abnormal electrical activity in the brain, leading to throbbing pain, sensitivity to light or sound, nausea, and in some cases, aura (flashes of light or visual disturbances). TMS has been shown to disrupt this abnormal activity and restore normal neurological function and reactions to stimuli.

Single-pulse TMS applied to the occipital cortex (back of the head) during aura can prevent a migraine from fully developing. The stimulation “resets” brainwave activity, calming the hyperactive neurons that trigger migraines.

Beyond halting an active migraine, repetitive TMS therapy has also shown preventive benefits, which is what we practice here at Serenity. A review of multiple clinical studies found that patients experienced fewer migraine days and reduced pain intensity when using TMS.

Some findings:

• One trial showed that people using TMS daily had about three fewer migraine days per month.
• Nearly 40% of patients who used TMS during aura were pain-free within two hours, compared to 20% using placebo.
• Patients needed fewer rescue medications like triptans or NSAIDs.

TMS works for migraines because it modulates brain areas like the trigeminal nerve network, which plays a central role in migraine pathophysiology. It may also block cortical spreading depression, the event behind migraine aura.

Plus, because migraines often co-occur with mood disorders like depression and anxiety, TMS can address multiple mental health conditions simultaneously.

3. What Is a Typical TMS Treatment Plan for Migraine Patients?

In-Clinic Treatment is recommended for people suffering from migraines and seeking the best and most professional care possible. The process is simple:

• Patients visit a TMS clinic or mental health provider.
• Sessions typically run 20 minutes, five times a week, for about 6 weeks.
• The treatment is pain-free and covered by major insurance companies.

You'll sit comfortably as a technician applies the magnetic coil to targeted brain regions. You may feel a tapping sensation, and hear soft clicking from the device. Many patients notice fewer and less intense migraines after the second or third week.

Studies have shown that consistent TMS sessions:

• Reduce monthly migraine days
• Lessen reliance on migraine medication
• Improve day-to-day function

4. How Does TMS Compare to Traditional Migraine Medications?

Traditional treatments like triptans, CGRP inhibitors, beta blockers, or anticonvulsants can be effective, but they often cause side effects like:

• Weight gain
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Brain fog

In contrast, TMS at Serenity offers a non-pharmacological approach. This treatment acts locally on the brain without affecting the entire body, meaning that TMS avoids many of the systemic side effects associated with drugs.

TMS side effects are generally mild and short-lived. These rare effects consist of:

• Mild scalp tingling or discomfort
• Slight headache after treatment
• Facial muscle twitching during stimulation

TMS is also well-suited for patients who:

• Can’t tolerate medications
• Experience limited relief from traditional drugs
• Prefer drug-free approaches

TMS can be used alone or alongside medications as part of a customized care plan designed by a migraine specialist or neurologist.

5. What Should Patients Know Before Starting TMS for Migraines?

Here’s what to consider:

• TMS is safe for most people. It’s non-invasive, well-tolerated, and doesn’t require recovery time.
• Not everyone is a candidate. People with metal implants or a history of seizures may need other treatments.
• You’ll need to commit. Full benefit usually takes several weeks of daily sessions.

Work closely with a neurologist or migraine specialist to:

• Create a migraine diary
• Review your current medications
• Determine if TMS should be used alone or alongside other treatments

Use trusted search terms like “TMS therapy near me” or “TMS treatment near me” to find local, qualified providers like our hand-picked care team at Serenity. We are proud to offer migraine-targeted therapy in addition to mental health applications.

Final Thoughts: A Breakthrough for Migraines

TMS is a growing part of migraine care. With the ability to reduce migraine days, avoid common medication side effects, and improve co-occurring mental health conditions, it’s no wonder more patients are exploring this therapy.

If you’ve been let down by medications, or you’re looking for a drug-free solution, transcranial magnetic stimulation therapy could offer the breakthrough you’ve been waiting for. It’s safe, it’s effective, and it may help you take back your life from migraines.

Reach out to us now to learn more about how you can get started and book your first appointment.