Flow Neuroscience
Aug. 31, 2025
If you’re exploring magnetic brain stimulation, you’ll come across different types: TMS, rTMS, and dTMS. While all use magnetic fields to stimulate the brain, they differ in how the pulses are delivered, how deep the stimulation goes, and who they’re most suited for.
The Variants
- TMS: A single, steady pulse targeting surface brain areas.
- rTMS: Delivers thousands of repeated pulses per session to strengthen the effect over time.
- dTMS: Uses an H-coil to reach deeper brain structures, potentially affecting broader brain networks.
Why the Differences Matter
- Repetition: rTMS sessions are designed to create more lasting brain changes through repeated stimulation.
- Depth: dTMS can access deeper regions that standard TMS might miss, which can be useful for certain complex or resistant cases.
If you’re unsure which is right for you, a clinician can guide you based on your medical history, how severe your symptoms are, and what you’ve already tried.