Parents always face the challenge of finding effective and low-risk treatments for their children's neurological and mental disorders. Among the multitude of existing solutions, new and promising methods have a special place. RTMS for children as an advanced and non-invasive solution has opened a new window to improve these disorders. Getting detailed information about this treatment method is very important because RTMS for children can help improve their quality of life and return to normal function by regulating brain activity.

RTMS for children; What is the meaning of this treatment method?

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation is a method that modulates the electrical activity of certain areas of the brain using focused magnetic pulses. This new treatment approach for children and adolescents is fully customized and implemented with specific protocols. Its main goal is to restore balance to the nerve circuits that have lost their normal function due to various disorders, and it does this without the need for drugs or surgery. In the following, we will examine the performance of this method in more detail, its benefits and its difference from other treatments.

How does magnetic brain stimulation (TMS) work?

The rTMS device consists of a magnetic coil that is placed on the scalp and above the target area in the brain. This coil produces short and powerful magnetic pulses that painlessly pass through the skull and reach the cerebral cortex. These pulses create a weak electrical current in nerve cells (neurons). Depending on the frequency of the pulses, the activity of these cells can be stimulated or inhibited and help restore healthy nerve connections.

The main benefits of using RTMS for children

The key advantages of this method make it an attractive and safe option for parents. These advantages include high safety, non-invasiveness and targeted treatment, which completely eliminates the concerns associated with more invasive methods. In the following, we mention the most important benefits of RTMS for children.

The most important benefits of RTMS for children are:

• Non-invasive treatment: This method does not require surgery, anesthesia or placing electrodes in the body
• Limited side effects: Unlike drugs that affect the whole body, rTMS has no systemic side effects
• Targeted therapy: The pulses target only a certain area of the brain and have no effect on other parts

What is the difference between rTMS and other treatment methods?

This treatment method has fundamental differences with common solutions such as drug therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy. rTMS can be used as an adjunctive therapy to enhance the effectiveness of other modalities or as an alternative therapy in cases where medications are ineffective or cause severe side effects. Unlike drugs that have widespread effects on brain chemistry, the effect of rTMS for children is completely local and focused on specific neural circuits.

Practical applications of RTMS for children and its considerations

After getting acquainted with the principles of this method, now we will discuss its clinical applications in the treatment of various disorders in children, as well as the implementation steps of a treatment session. Understanding these things helps parents to make an open and informed decision to choose this treatment path for their child and start this process with more confidence. More details will be mentioned in the following sections.

Which disorders in children can be treated with rTMS?

Clinical research has shown the effectiveness of rTMS in improving the symptoms of several important disorders. These include autism spectrum disorder (ASD) to improve communication skills and reduce repetitive behaviors and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) to improve focus and impulse control. Also, the effectiveness of rTMS for children and adolescents with treatment-resistant depression has also created new hopes for families and is known as an effective treatment option.

What are the stages of a rTMS treatment session for a child?

Explaining the process of a therapy session in simple language can help reduce the anxiety of parents and children. in a Center rtms in Tehran, which specializes in this field, the treatment protocol is implemented carefully and under full supervision.

The general stages of a treatment session are:

• Preliminary brain mapping: Using methods such as electroencephalography (QEEG), the exact brain area to stimulate is determined
• Conducting the treatment session: The child sits comfortably on a special chair and the magnetic coil is placed on his head
• Continuous monitoring: The specialist monitors the child's condition throughout the session, which lasts about 20 to 30 minutes.

Safety and possible side effects of rTMS in children

One of the most important concerns of parents is the safety of treatment methods. MS is generally recognized as a very safe method and has been approved by reputable global organizations. Its side effects are usually very mild, temporary and limited to the site of irritation. These complications can include a mild headache or a tingling sensation in the scalp, which usually resolve after the first few sessions and are not a cause for serious concern for parents and children.

Neurali Clinic; A new step in the path of your child's health

RTMS for children, as a new horizon in neuroscience, provides a unique opportunity to improve brain function and improve children's quality of life. Of course, success in this treatment path requires choosing a reliable center with a team of experts and advanced equipment that implements treatment protocols in a completely scientific and personalized way. At Nourali Neurology Clinic, we are ready to provide accurate diagnostic services such as brain mapping (QEEG) and development of special RTMS treatment protocols for children, using the latest equipment and a team of leading experts in neurology, neuroscience and psychology. Contact us to receive expert advice and take the first step to improve your child's health.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is rTMS treatment painful for children?

No, this method is completely painless. The child may feel only a slight shock or tingling sensation on his scalp, which he quickly gets used to.

From what age can RTMS be used for children?

The right age to start treatment depends on the type of disorder and specialist diagnosis. In general, this method is applicable for children and teenagers after careful evaluations.

Does rTMS for children replace other treatments?

This method can be prescribed as a complementary treatment along with other methods or in resistant cases, as a main option by a specialist doctor.