Local mental health clinic offers innovative depression treatment – The Oxford Eagle – Oxford Eagle

Right Tracks clinical team began researching manufacturers that offered the devices needed toprovide TMS treatment. They ultimately landed onBrainsWay, a global technology company that produces TMS magnets that Dr. Pannel said are more unique and specific to patients.

The treatment sessions with BrainsWay devices are also relatively short, clocking in at 18 minutes versus 40 or more minutes with other devices.

When we were first looking into TMS, I felt that time was very, very important for people, he said. Ifwe could save people time and make it more efficient for them, we definitely wantedto do that.

The ease of receiving TMS, Dr.Pannel said, is one of the treatment options advantages. Thesessions are completely outpatient and do not require anesthesia or having someone come along to drive before or after the appointment.

A common concern of potential patients is the procedure itself. Dr. Pannel acknowledged that the treatmentin which a padded helmet is fitted to the patients headlooks strange for those unfamiliar.

For most people, TMS is a very new and unique process. Its always interesting for people attheir first session, but people adjust to it very quickly, he said.

After deciding that the treatment is appropriate, a Right Track psychiatrist works with the patient to tailor the TMS to them and their needs. This is done during a half-hour brain mapping session, during which the provider uses the TMS machine to examine the patientsbrain like another doctor might use x-rays.

Regular 20-minute TMS appointments, which are overseen by one ofthe clinicspsychiatrists or nurse practitioners, begin the next day and typically last for about three to four months.

Once someone begins receiving TMS, family and friends often notice initial improvements. Then, from session five to 10, patients typically notice improvements in mood, sleep and depressive symptoms.

By the end of treatment, Dr. Pannel said, the frequency, severity and intensity of depressive symptoms decrease overall in most patients.

A majority of people Ive treated go into remission and really improve, he said.The success of TMS has even changed Dr.Pannels outlook as a psychiatrist.

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Local mental health clinic offers innovative depression treatment - The Oxford Eagle - Oxford Eagle