We employ a range of non-invasive neuromodulation techniques, each targeting different aspects of nervous system dysfunction. The specific combination is tailored to each patient’s condition, symptoms, and clinical response.
TMS uses focused magnetic pulses to stimulate or inhibit specific areas of the brain. A coil placed against the scalp generates brief magnetic fields that pass painlessly through the skull and induce electrical currents in targeted brain regions.
Repetitive TMS (rTMS) can modulate cortical excitability, normalize dysfunctional neural circuits, and promote neuroplasticity. It has been approved for treatment-resistant depression and is increasingly used for chronic pain, cognitive dysfunction, and neurological rehabilitation.
PEMF delivers low-frequency electromagnetic pulses that penetrate deep into body tissues, stimulating cellular repair, reducing inflammation, and promoting healing at the cellular level. PEMF acts on cell membrane potential, improving ion channel function and cellular energy production.
In our clinical practice, PEMF is used for pain reduction, nerve regeneration, bone healing, wound repair, and as an adjunct to mitochondrial support therapy. It is particularly valuable for patients with chronic fatigue and post-infectious conditions where cellular energy production is impaired.
The vagus nerve is the primary communication highway between the brain and the body’s organ systems. It regulates heart rate, digestion, immune response, and inflammatory pathways. In many chronic conditions — including CFS, POTS, Post-COVID, and Lyme disease — vagus nerve function is impaired.
Non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation uses gentle electrical impulses applied to the ear or neck to activate vagal pathways. This reduces systemic inflammation (via the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway), improves autonomic balance, enhances gut motility, and supports mood regulation.
Real-time EEG monitoring allows patients to learn to self-regulate brain wave patterns. By providing visual or auditory feedback when the brain produces desired wave patterns, neurofeedback trains the brain to normalize its own activity. Effective for anxiety, insomnia, attention disorders, and chronic pain. Typically 15-20 sessions for meaningful improvement.
FSM delivers extremely low-level electrical current at specific frequencies targeted to different tissue types (nerve, muscle, tendon, organ). Different frequency pairs are used for inflammation, fibrosis, nerve pain, and tissue repair. The currents are sub-sensory -- patients typically feel nothing during treatment. Clinical experience shows particular effectiveness for neuropathy and myofascial pain.
tDCS applies a weak constant electrical current through electrodes placed on the scalp. Anodal stimulation increases cortical excitability while cathodal stimulation decreases it. Used clinically for chronic pain, depression, cognitive enhancement, and motor rehabilitation. Sessions are 20-30 minutes with effects that build cumulatively over treatment courses.
Neuromodulation at St. George Hospital is delivered as part of your inpatient treatment program, typically over 2-3 weeks. Here is what a typical neuromodulation course looks like:
Most patients notice improvements within the first week of treatment. Maximum benefits typically emerge 2-4 weeks after completing the treatment course as neuroplastic changes consolidate.
All neuromodulation techniques used at St. George Hospital are non-invasive with well-established safety profiles. Common side effects are mild and transient.
Mild scalp discomfort or headache during/after initial sessions. Rarely causes brief dizziness. Not suitable for patients with metal implants near the treatment site or uncontrolled epilepsy.
Generally free of side effects. Occasional mild fatigue after sessions. Not recommended for patients with active implanted electronic devices (pacemakers, insulin pumps).
Mild tingling at the stimulation site. Occasionally causes brief coughing or throat discomfort during cervical stimulation. Well tolerated by the vast majority of patients.
Discover how non-invasive neuromodulation can complement your treatment plan. Contact us to discuss your options.
