Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition that can impact an individual’s ability to communicate and interact with others. While there is no one-size-fits-all approach to managing ASD, research suggests that a promising therapy option for some individuals is magnetic resonance therapy (MeRT). This type of therapy uses magnetic pulses to stimulate certain areas of the brain, and while scientists continue to research this therapy, many families have already benefited from utilizing MeRT for autism.
What Is MeRT for Autism?
MeRT is a type of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) protocol that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate specific areas of the brain. TMS is a safe and non-invasive procedure that used to treat various neurological conditions, including depression, anxiety, and chronic pain. MeRT is different from other types of TMS in that it uses a focused magnetic field to target deep structures in the brain. What makes MeRT different from TMS is that each treatment is customized for each person by using an EEG to determine the part of the brain that is not working correctly and then targeting treatment to that area.
MeRT for autism is still considered experimental, but preliminary studies have shown promising results. In one case, MeRT was found to improve communication and social skills in a child with ASD. MeRT is thought to work by stimulating the neurons in the brain involved in social and communication skills.
How Does MeRT Work?
MeRT is thought to work by stimulating the frontolimbic network, a group of brain regions that are involved in social cognition and emotion processing. This network is believed to be functionally reduced in people with ASD, which can lead to the social and communication difficulties characteristic of the condition. By stimulating the frontolimbic network with magnetic pulses, MeRT is thought to improve its function and alleviate symptoms of ASD.
How Is MeRT for Autism Administered?
MeRT is typically administered as a series of five sessions per week for one month, depending on the individual’s needs. Each session lasts for 30 minutes, and the magnetic pulses are applied to specific areas of the brain. MeRT is a non-invasive procedure without the need for anesthesia or sedation.
After the MeRT treatment sessions are completed, some people may see improvements in their symptoms right away, while others may see improvements over time. MeRT is usually well-tolerated, and side effects are typically mild and temporary.
What Are the Benefits of MeRT for Autism?
MeRT has been shown to be effective in reducing symptoms of ASD, including communication problems, social withdrawal, and repetitive behaviors. MeRT for autism is a safe and non-invasive procedure with few side effects. It is also well tolerated by most people with ASD.
MeRT offers a number of potential benefits for people with ASD, including:
- improved communication skills
- improved social interaction skills
- reduced repetitive behaviors
- improved quality of life.
MeRT is a promising new treatment option for autism that shows great promise in preliminary studies. While more research continues to improve in-depth treatments for ASD, MeRT may offer a safe and simple way to manage the condition of ASD.
MeRT for Other Conditions
MeRT is also being studied as a possible treatment for other conditions, such as depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, and Alzheimer’s disease. Preliminary studies have found that MeRT can be effective in reducing symptoms of these conditions. However, more research is needed to confirm the efficacy of MeRT for these conditions. MeRT can also be used to improve reaction times and cognitive processing speed, which can be useful in sports and schoolwork.
Learn More About MeRT (rTMS) in Irving, TX
At Southwest Pain Management, we offer MeRT (rTMS) as a treatment option for our patients. MeRT is a safe and non-invasive procedure that has shown promising results for people with certain neurological conditions. If you are interested in learning more about MeRT for autism in Irving, TX, contact us at (214) 305-8004 to schedule a consultation. We will work with you to determine if MeRT is the right treatment option for you.