a promising but still experimental treatment for depression using a high-intensity magnetic field briefly applied to the scalp to alter neuronal function in the area of the brain beneath.
a stimulating coil creates a strong magnetic field. When the coil is placed close to the scalp, the magnetic field passes through the skull and into the brain, producing electric currents that cause more or less activity, based on the settings.
Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a noninvasive method to excite neurons in the brain. The excitation is caused by weak electric currents induced in the tissue by rapidly changing magnetic fields (electromagnetic induction). This way, brain activity can be triggered or modulated without the need for surgery or external electrodes.