Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) as Treatment for Functional Movement Disorder

Daruj Aniwattanapong, Timothy R. Nicholson*

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapterpeer-review

Abstract

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), a form of indirect (non-invasive) neurostimulation, has potential wide ranging therapeutic applications across the clinical neurosciences. There is accumulating evidence for its off-label use in functional movement disorder (FMD) and other functional neurological disorder (FND) presentations as a potentially safe and effective treatment. TMS is a relatively inexpensive and safe technology that is already available in most neuroscience centers – suggesting that this therapeutic modality could be rapidly scaled and applied to FND populations for which there are currently few therapeutic options. In this chapter, we critically appraise the available evidence for the therapeutic use of TMS for FMD and other FND subtypes, and discuss key methodological issues in designing and assessing this intervention. The possible mechanisms of action are then considered along with future research directions – including other forms of direct and indirect neurostimulation that are currently available or in development. More research is needed to definitively investigate the potential role for TMS and other neuromodulation techniques in the therapeutic toolbox for the management of functional neurological symptoms.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationCurrent Clinical Neurology
PublisherHumana Press Inc
Pages379-399
Number of pages21
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2022

Publication series

NameCurrent Clinical Neurology
ISSN (Print)1559-0585
ISSN (Electronic)2524-4043

Keywords

  • Functional movement disorder
  • Functional neurological disorder
  • Neuromodulation
  • Transcranial magnetic stimulation
  • Treatment

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