Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for Autism

TMS is the generally accepted abbreviated name for the method. It is more effective than general magnetic therapy for autism because it directly influences the brain. The technique is based on electromagnetic induction. During the procedure, a device generates a magnetic-electric field that affects biological tissue.

This field has a positive effect on the nervous system due to its natural electrochemical impulses. The doctor places the sensor terminals to stimulate the cerebral cortex, as it contains mirror neurons. These are a special type of cells that help with the processes of mutual understanding, empathy, and compassion. It is known that the structure of the cerebral cortex, cerebellum, and limbic system have cellular abnormalities in autism.

Transcranial treatment of ASD with magnetotherapy is necessary because it can eliminate many dysfunctions to some extent. Patients who underwent TMS had visible improvements, recorded by MRI.

Positive changes in a child’s behaviour after magnetic stimulation:
● Improved understanding of non-verbal cues
● Enhancement of social interaction skills
● Elimination of anxiety in the process of communicating with others
● Reducing the number of repetitive movements.

Transcranial magnetic therapy is also recommended for autistic children to:
● Normalize psycho-emotional condition
● Strengthen intellectual abilities
● Improve brain functioning
● Increase activity
● Reduce anxiety and irritability.

Transcranial magnetic brain therapy for autism also improves cognitive abilities. It has been observed that children make fewer mistakes while performing certain tasks and pass psychological testing more confidently and consciously. Coordination of movements — in particular, the simultaneous interaction of hands and eyes — also becomes significantly better.

Magnetic brain stimulation is a safe non-invasive procedure of neural modulation. It has no side effects. Some mild itching at the places where the electrodes were attached or a moderate headache may occur after the procedure.

Expert Conclusion About Magnetic Therapy for Autism, a Modern Alternative

The positive effects listed above have been confirmed by doctors and scientists. However, they also note that TMS is an auxiliary technique that helps to improve brain functioning and eliminate symptoms of pathology. But it is not a treatment for childhood autism spectrum disorder. The only technology available today is cell therapy, which restores the correct structure of the brain at the cellular level.

Stem cell transplantation for the correction of childhood autism will have a more pronounced therapeutic effect than TMS. Many people now seek to undergo this type of treatment for childhood autism, because the method involves the use of the body’s natural restorative forces. Only stem cells taken from the patient’s umbilical cord blood or bone marrow are needed for the procedure.

Sign up for an appointment with a doctor at the Mardaleishvili Medical Centre — you can do it online and additionally receive a free consultation.