Empowering Hope: Research Shows rTMS as an Effective Treatment for Autism Spectrum Disorder Symptoms
At Summit Brain Health, we use targeted rTMS (repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation) as a key element of our MeRT treatment for autism. This treatment generates a gentle magnetic field to balance and stimulate brain function. Many studies have been done on the effectiveness of rTMS for autism treatment, and we’ve summarized a few here.
Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for Treatment of Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
This 2022 review identified 11 studies that met the inclusion criteria. The authors found evidence that rTMS may help with social communication and repetitive behaviors in ASD.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation in Autism Spectrum Disorders: Neuropathological Underpinnings and Clinical Correlations
This review article, published in 2020, summarizes the findings of 13 clinical trials that have investigated the use of rTMS for treating ASD. The authors conclude that rTMS appears to be safe and to improve multiple patient-oriented outcomes in ASD. They also state that more research is needed to confirm these findings.
Effects of Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation on Children with Low‐function Autism
The Potential of Magnetic Resonant Therapy in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder
This 2016 report in the Austin Journal of Autism & Related Disabilities reviewed studies done using MeRT as a potential therapy for children with ASD. Their conclusion was that this is a promising therapeutic option with minimal side effects.
Improved Autism Behaviors After Non-invasive Cerebral Trans-Magnetic Stimulation Using Customized Frequency Modulation
This 2014 presentation to the American Association of Neurological Surgeons shared findings on TMS and autism. The study showed statistically significant improvements in autism behaviors. They noted improvements in taste, smell, and touch response and use, fear and nervousness, and verbal communication.
Non-invasive EEG-EKG Guided Trans-Magnetic Stimulation at Natural Resonance Frequency in Children with Autism
This abstract outlines a pilot study on ASD patients using EEG/EKG-guided TMS. Patients had significant clinical improvement, with reductions in ASD symptoms compared to the sham group.
These are just a few of the many studies and reports on rTMS for autism treatment, with many more studies ongoing. We are excited to offer rTMS as part of our MeRT treatment for autism. To learn more about this breakthrough treatment, please visit our Autism Treatment page.