Houston ASD Treatment

Unlocking Doors For Minds

Novara Healthcare was founded to transform lives with empathetic care that fosters hope, healing, and growth. We stand by our mission to provide youthful minds access to advanced therapies tailored to their unique needs, empowering them to unlock their full potential. Our approach is deeply rooted in science, using evidence-based practices and cutting-edge technologies to deliver measurable results. This commitment to science allows us to provide care that is not only compassionate but also effective, helping our patients achieve meaningful progress and improved quality of life.

Novara Healthcare’s Research Sources

Brain image

Depression

TMS Should Be Considered as First-Line Treatment For Moderate to Severe Major Depressive Disorder, in Psychiatric News, October 2022.

The article’s author, Richard A. Bermudes, reviewed a decade’s worth of studies on the effectiveness of TMS and wrote this:

“As I read the [APA] guidelines recently and considered the number of new outcome studies conducted with TMS, I believe TMS should be considered, in addition to pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy, as a first-line treatment for patients with moderate to severe major depressive disorder.”

A retrospective chart review to assess the impact of alpha-guided transcranial magnetic stimulation on symptoms of PTSD and depression in active-duty special operations service members, 21 June 2024.

“This data provides a demonstration of significant reduction in PTSD and depression symptoms and safety with the application of a-rTMS in active-duty special operations military personnel. Expansion of targeted neuromodulation programs could be impactful for military and civilian populations.”

Brain image

PTSD

Efficacy of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) adjunctive therapy for major depressive disorder (MDD) after two antidepressant treatment failures, July 2023.

“Several meta-analyses proved the efficacy of rTMS treatment in MDD, which is comparable to pharmacotherapy, and may have even better tolerability. Our results strengthened that rTMS is associated with clinically relevant antidepressant effect in TRD as well, and may be a beneficial tool in the add-on treatment of patients with TRD. Furthermore, rTMS adjunctive treatment to antidepressants was found to be specifically effective in achieving full remission.”

Brain image

Depression

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) for major depression: a multisite, naturalistic, observational study of quality of life outcome measures in clinical practice, July 2013.

This study found: “Conclusion: These data confirm that TMS is effective in the acute treatment of MDD in routine clinical practice settings. This symptom benefit is accompanied by statistically and clinically meaningful improvements in patient-reported QOL [quality of life] and functional status outcomes.”

Brain image

Depression

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) for major depression: a multisite, naturalistic, observational study of acute treatment outcomes in clinical practice, Carpenter et al, 2012.

“These data indicate that TMS is an effective treatment for those unable to benefit from initial antidepressant medication.”

Brain image

Depression

Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for the Treatment of Resistant Depression: A Scoping Review. June 2022.

“Overall, 16 out of the 17 studies suggested that rTMS treatment was effective, safe and tolerated in TRD. For patients with TRD, rTMS appears to provide significant benefits through the reduction of depressive symptoms…”

Brain image

Depression

The association between sample and treatment characteristics and the efficacy of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation in depression. Oct 2022.

“Data from nearly 3000 patients from 65 randomized controlled trials were included in this meta-analysis. rTMS was confirmed as efficacious in treating depression when looking at symptom reduction, response and remission.”

Brain image

Depression

Efficacy of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation in treatment-resistant depression: the evidence thus far, August 2019.

“rTMS is rapidly gaining popularity as a treatment modality for depression. There is growing evidence to support its use in patients with depression as a monotherapy or as adjunct with pharmacotherapy. Additionally, rTMS has been found to be safe and effective in pregnant patients and elderly patients…”

Brain image

Depression

Use of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for Depression, May 2019.

“The clinical efficacy of TMS as an antidepressant has been well established. TMS is an innovative and promising treatment modality for patients with TRD [treatment-resistent depression].”

Brain image

Depression

Experimental depression treatment is nearly 80% effective in controlled study, October 28, 2021.

“In a double-blind controlled study, high doses of magnetic brain stimulation, given on an accelerated timeline and individually targeted, caused remission in 79% of trial participants with severe depression.”

“A new type of magnetic brain stimulation brought rapid remission to almost 80% of participants with severe depression in a study conducted at the Stanford University School of Medicine.”

Brain image

Depression

Magnetic Resonance Therapy Improves Clinical Phenotype and EEG Alpha Power in Post-traumatic Stress Disorder

Magnetic Resonance Therapy (MeRT) has shown statistically significant clinical improvements in patients suffering from PTSD. The study was conducted on a sample size of 21 veterans that were consecutively treated for PTSD. The veterans after magnetic brain stimulation showed more normalized heart rates on average and stabler brain activity based on EEG test results.

Brain image

PTSD

Magnetic E-Resonant therapy alleviates combat related post-traumatic stress disorder

The study conducted was to observe and understand how transcranial MeRT may provide an alternative method to veterans suffering from PTSD. The sample size involved U.S. Service members who have served in Iraq and Afghanistan who were enrolled and completed MeRT treatment. Results showed that MeRT was a promising treatment that might help veterans suffering from PTSD.

Brain image

PTSD

Improved autism behaviors after noninvasive cerebral trans-magnetic stimulation using customized frequency modulation: follow-up mean 24 months

This study explores the use of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) with customized frequency modulation to treat autism behaviors. Data from 141 patients showed significant improvements in Child Autism Rating Scale (CARS) scores after 12 months. Results suggest TMS is a safe, non-invasive option, with notable improvements in taste, smell, touch, fear, and communication.

Brain image

ASD

The Potential of Magnetic Resonant Therapy in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

This abstract explains that Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a brain condition that’s becoming more common, affecting how people interact and communicate. Tests like MRI and EEG show differences in brain activity in children with ASD. Magnetic Resonant Therapy (MRT), already approved for PTSD and depression, is being studied as a safe and promising treatment for ASD.

Brain image

ASD

The Speed of Alpha-Band Oscillations Predicts the Temporal Resolution of Visual Perception

This study details that brainwaves called alpha oscillations play a role in how we react to what we see. Faster alpha rhythms are linked to better visual discrimination and quicker reactions. Researchers tested how changes in alpha frequency affect the ability to distinguish between two quick visual flashes, finding evidence that alpha rhythms influence visual perception timing.

Brain image

ASD

EEG Analytics for Early Detection of Autism Spectrum Disorder: A data-driven approach

This study highlights the use of EEG, a simple and low-cost brain measurement, to detect Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) early. Researchers studied EEG data from infants as young as 3 months and found it could accurately predict ASD with over 95% accuracy. These findings suggest that EEG could serve as an useful tool for early ASD detection during routine checkups to monitor brain development.

Brain image

ASD

Traumatic brain injury An EEG point of view

This review focuses on how EEG can detect brain activity changes caused by mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), often called a “silent epidemic.” EEG tests show slower brain rhythms after injury, which may gradually return to normal. While no specific EEG features uniquely diagnose mTBI, research shows promise in using EEG for understanding recovery and predicting outcomes.

Brain image

TBI

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation affects behavior by biasing endogenous cortical oscillations

Scientists studied how repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) affects brain activity and memory. Contrary to past assumptions that it disrupts brain function, they found it can improve or impair performance, depending on brainwave changes. These effects are linked to specific brain regions and suggest rTMS may enhance active cognitive processes in memory tasks.

Brain image

Depression

Rhythmic TMS Causes Local Entrainment of Natural Oscillatory Signatures

Researchers showed that rhythmic transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) can synchronize brain waves, particularly alpha waves linked to attention and perception. By tuning TMS to natural brain rhythms, they enhanced these waves and confirmed it affects brain activity directly. This reveals how TMS could mimic natural brain functions and impact cognitive tasks.

Brain image

Depression

Making Waves in the Brain: What Are Oscillations, and Why Modulating Them Makes Sense for Brain Injury

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) can cause lasting cognitive and emotional issues. Research shows that TBI disrupts brain rhythms, but low-frequency electrical stimulation may help restore these rhythms and improve memory and learning. This approach, inspired by treatments for Parkinson’s disease and epilepsy, could offer a new way to aid recovery in TBI patients.

Brain image

TBI

Autism spectrum disorders: linking neuropathological findings to treatment with transcranial magnetic stimulation

Postmortem studies in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) individuals indicate the presence of abnormalities within the peripheral neuropil space (PNS) of cortical minicolumns. The geometrical orientation of inhibitory elements within the PNS suggests using repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) to up-regulate their activity.

Brain image

ASD

TMS Treatment for Autism: What is it and Does it Work?

Talk about transcranial magnetic stimulation, or TMS therapy, is raising hopes of parents who wonder if the treatment could work for their child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

Parents with children on the spectrum are wary of the term “cure”. For some, it’s because they’ve been disappointed by snakeoil and false hope more than they care to remember; for others, the term “cure” seems more fitting to a disease. 

Brain image

ASD

Impact of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation on the directed connectivity of autism EEG signals: a pilot study

To compare the differences in directed connectivity between typically developing (TD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) children and identify the potential effects of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) on brain connectivity and behavior of children with ASD; 26 TD children (18 males/8 females; the average age was 6.34 ± 0.45) and 30 ASD children (21 males/9 females; the average age was 6.42 ± 0.17) participated in the experiment.

Brain image

Depression

Noninvasive EEG-EKG guided trans-magnetic stimulation at natural resonance frequency in children with autism: randomized double-blinded pilot study

EEG abnormalities of the neocortex exist in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) when compared with neurotypic EEGs of the same age group (public database ¹). Particularly, cortical-to-cortical coherences inherent in normal children may be disrupted in ASD . Transmagnetic stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive modality that may be able to alter baseline EEG patterns, thereby improving cortical connectivity . We hypothesize clinical improvement in patients with ASD coinciding with changes in EEG measures.

Brain image

ASD

TMS and Autism – 2021 Research Updates

Manuel Casanova, MD, discusses Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation and its potential for treating autism. He details the cerebral cortex development and notes revealed differences in mini-columnar morphology and gamma oscillations in individuals with autism.

Casanova describes TMS treatments and outlines studies that correlated TMS sessions and increased cognitive abilities. He posits that TMS could shift our focus from symptomatic treatments to interventions that target core pathologies of autism.

Brain image

ASD

Transcranial magnetic stimulation in autism

The brains of people on the autism spectrum develop and work differently to the brains of people who aren’t on the spectrum. Autistic people can have difficulty with social interaction and communication with non-autistic people. They can experience restrictive and repetitive behaviours.

Some teenagers and young adults feel this creates barriers to their education, employment and community participation. As a result, they tend to experience extremely poor mental health, for example anxiety or depression.

Brain image

Depression

TMS Therapy Holds Promise for Autism , Complex analysis of brain activity guides novel therapeutics for autism.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition affecting 1 in 36 children, with boys being diagnosed five times more often than girls. As with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), girls are frequently underdiagnosed or present differently, which can delay recognition. Autism manifests with challenges in social communication and interaction, alongside restricted and repetitive behaviors, interests, or activities, as outlined in the DSM-5. Symptoms often emerge early in life, ranging from mild to severe, though milder cases may go unnoticed as individuals “mask” symptoms to blend in socially, delaying diagnosis and treatment.

Brain image

ASD

Assessing and Stabilizing Aberrant Neuroplasticity in Autism Spectrum Disorder: The Potential Role of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation

Exciting developments have taken place in the neuroscience research in autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and results from these studies indicate that brain in ASD is associated with aberrant neuroplasticity.

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) has rapidly evolved to become a widely used, safe, and non-invasive neuroscientific tool to investigate a variety of neurophysiological processes, including neuroplasticity. The diagnostic and therapeutic potential of TMS in ASD is beginning to be realized.

Brain image

ASD

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) in autism spectrum disorder: protocol for a multicentre randomised controlled clinical trial

There are no well-established biomedical treatments for the core symptoms of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). A small number of studies suggest that repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), a non-invasive brain stimulation technique, may improve clinical and cognitive outcomes in ASD.

We describe here the protocol for a funded multicentre randomised
controlled clinical trial to investigate whether a course of
rTMS to the right temporoparietal junction (rTPJ), which has demonstrated abnormal brain activation in ASD, can improve social communication in adolescents and young adults with ASD

Brain image

ASD

Treatment Response of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation in Intellectually Capable Youth and Young Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

The results of our systematic review and meta-analysis data indicate that TMS may offer a promising and safe treatment option for pediatric and young adult patients with ICASD. However, future work should include use of neuronavigation software, theta burst protocols, targeting of various brain regions, and robust study design before clinical recommendations can be made.

Brain image

ASD

High-Frequency Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Applied to the Parietal Cortex for Low-Functioning Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Case Series

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a safe and efficacious technique to stimulate specific areas of cortical dysfunction in several neuropsychiatric diseases; however, it is not known whether high-frequency rTMS (HF-rTMS) over the left inferior parietal lobule, in low functioning children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), improves core symptoms.

Brain image

ASD

Exploratory Study of rTMS Neuromodulation Effects on Electrocortical Functional Measures of Performance in an Oddball Test and Behavioral Symptoms in Autism, May 2018

There is no accepted pathology to autism spectrum disorders (ASD) but research suggests the presence of an altered excitatory/inhibitory (E/I) bias in the cerebral cortex. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) offers a non-invasive means of modulating the E/I cortical bias with little in terms of side effects. In this study, 124 high functioning ASD children (IQ > 80, <18 years of age) were recruited and assigned using randomization to either a waitlist group or one of three different number of weekly rTMS sessions (i.e., 6, 12, and 18). 

Brain image

ASD

Study of the role of the transcranial magnetic stimulation on language progress in autism spectrum disorder

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition. Core ASD signs include social contact impairments and limited and repeated habits and actions starting in the early developmental period [1]. Most patients with ASD are given psychotropic drugs somewhere in their lives [2].
ASD evaluation is focused on findings and behavioral evaluations using psychiatric disorder Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM) or International Disease Classification (ICD) guidelines. The brain networks responsible for high-level abilities that are compromised as part of core ASD features are complicated, needing several brain regions to be incorporated effectively.

Brain image

ASD

Effects of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation on children with low‐function autism

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a very complex neurodevelopmental
disorder, characterized by social difficulties and stereotypical or repetitive behavior.
Some previous studies using low‐frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) have proven of benefit in ASD children.
In this study, 32 children (26 males and six females) with low‐function
autism were enrolled, 16 children (three females and 13 males; mean ± SD age:7.8 ± 2.1 years) received rTMS treatment twice every week, while the remaining 16 children (three females and 13 males; mean ± SD age: 7.2 ± 1.6 years) served as waitlist group.

Brain image

ASD

Noninvasive reduction of neural rigidity alters autistic behaviors in humans

Autistic behaviors correlate with reductions in specific brain-state
transitions in global neural dynamics, implying that the mitigation of such rigid brain dynamics may alter autistic traits. To examine this possibility, we investigated longitudinal behavioral effects of state-dependent transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) in autistic adults. We found that excitatory TMS over the right parietal lobule decreased neural rigidity, which commensurately reduced social and nonsocial autistic behaviors. Specifically, TMS-induced neural flexibility immediately decreased cognitive inflexibility and slowly reduced overstable perception and a typical nonverbal communication

Brain image

ASD

Transcranial magnetic stimulation in autism spectrum disorder: Challenges, promise, and roadmap for future research

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a behaviorally defined complex neurodevelopmental syndrome characterized by impairments in social communication, by the presence of restricted and repetitive behaviors, interests and activities, and by abnormalities in sensory reactivity.

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a promising, emerging tool for the study and potential treatment of ASD. Recent studies suggest that TMS measures provide rapid and noninvasive pathophysiological ASD biomarkers. Furthermore, repetitive TMS (rTMS) may represent a novel treatment strategy for reducing some of the core and associated ASD symptoms. 

Brain image

ASD

Safety and tolerability of transcranial magnetic and direct current stimulation in children: Prospective single center evidence from 3.5 million stimulations

To determine the safety and tolerability of non-invasive neurostimulation in children across diverse modalities of stimulation and pediatric populations.
A non-invasive brain stimulation program was established in 2008 at our pediatric, academic institution. Multi-disciplinary neurophysiological studies included single- and paired-pulse Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) methods. Motor mapping employed robotic TMS. Interventional trials included repetitive TMS (rTMS) and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS). Standardized safety and tolerability measures were completed prospectively by all participants.

Brain image

ASD

Brain image

Depression

TMS Should Be Considered as First-Line Treatment For Moderate to Severe Major Depressive Disorder, in Psychiatric News, October 2022.

The article’s author, Richard A. Bermudes, reviewed a decade’s worth of studies on the effectiveness of TMS and wrote this:

“As I read the [APA] guidelines recently and considered the number of new outcome studies conducted with TMS, I believe TMS should be considered, in addition to pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy, as a first-line treatment for patients with moderate to severe major depressive disorder.”

Efficacy of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) adjunctive therapy for major depressive disorder (MDD) after two antidepressant treatment failures, July 2023.

“Several meta-analyses proved the efficacy of rTMS treatment in MDD, which is comparable to pharmacotherapy, and may have even better tolerability. Our results strengthened that rTMS is associated with clinically relevant antidepressant effect in TRD as well, and may be a beneficial tool in the add-on treatment of patients with TRD. Furthermore, rTMS adjunctive treatment to antidepressants was found to be specifically effective in achieving full remission.”

Brain image

Depression

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) for major depression: a multisite, naturalistic, observational study of quality of life outcome measures in clinical practice, July 2013.

This study found: “Conclusion: These data confirm that TMS is effective in the acute treatment of MDD in routine clinical practice settings. This symptom benefit is accompanied by statistically and clinically meaningful improvements in patient-reported QOL [quality of life] and functional status outcomes.”

Brain image

Depression

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) for major depression: a multisite, naturalistic, observational study of acute treatment outcomes in clinical practice, Carpenter et al, 2012.

“These data indicate that TMS is an effective treatment for those unable to benefit from initial antidepressant medication.”

Brain image

Depression

Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for the Treatment of Resistant Depression: A Scoping Review. June 2022.

“Overall, 16 out of the 17 studies suggested that rTMS treatment was effective, safe and tolerated in TRD. For patients with TRD, rTMS appears to provide significant benefits through the reduction of depressive symptoms…”

Brain image

Depression

The association between sample and treatment characteristics and the efficacy of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation in depression. Oct 2022.

“Data from nearly 3000 patients from 65 randomized controlled trials were included in this meta-analysis. rTMS was confirmed as efficacious in treating depression when looking at symptom reduction, response and remission.”

Brain image

Depression

Efficacy of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation in treatment-resistant depression: the evidence thus far, August 2019.

“rTMS is rapidly gaining popularity as a treatment modality for depression. There is growing evidence to support its use in patients with depression as a monotherapy or as adjunct with pharmacotherapy. Additionally, rTMS has been found to be safe and effective in pregnant patients and elderly patients…”

Brain image

Depression

Use of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for Depression, May 2019.

“The clinical efficacy of TMS as an antidepressant has been well established. TMS is an innovative and promising treatment modality for patients with TRD [treatment-resistent depression].”

Brain image

Depression

Experimental depression treatment is nearly 80% effective in controlled study, October 28, 2021.

“In a double-blind controlled study, high doses of magnetic brain stimulation, given on an accelerated timeline and individually targeted, caused remission in 79% of trial participants with severe depression.”

“A new type of magnetic brain stimulation brought rapid remission to almost 80% of participants with severe depression in a study conducted at the Stanford University School of Medicine.”

Brain image

Depression

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation affects behavior by biasing endogenous cortical oscillations

Scientists studied how repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) affects brain activity and memory. Contrary to past assumptions that it disrupts brain function, they found it can improve or impair performance, depending on brainwave changes. These effects are linked to specific brain regions and suggest rTMS may enhance active cognitive processes in memory tasks.

Brain image

Depression

Rhythmic TMS Causes Local Entrainment of Natural Oscillatory Signatures

Researchers showed that rhythmic transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) can synchronize brain waves, particularly alpha waves linked to attention and perception. By tuning TMS to natural brain rhythms, they enhanced these waves and confirmed it affects brain activity directly. This reveals how TMS could mimic natural brain functions and impact cognitive tasks.

Brain image

Depression

Impact of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation on the directed connectivity of autism EEG signals: a pilot study

To compare the differences in directed connectivity between typically developing (TD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) children and identify the potential effects of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) on brain connectivity and behavior of children with ASD; 26 TD children (18 males/8 females; the average age was 6.34 ± 0.45) and 30 ASD children (21 males/9 females; the average age was 6.42 ± 0.17) participated in the experiment.

Brain image

Depression

Transcranial magnetic stimulation in autism

The brains of people on the autism spectrum develop and work differently to the brains of people who aren’t on the spectrum. Autistic people can have difficulty with social interaction and communication with non-autistic people. They can experience restrictive and repetitive behaviours.

Some teenagers and young adults feel this creates barriers to their education, employment and community participation. As a result, they tend to experience extremely poor mental health, for example anxiety or depression.

Brain image

Depression

Improved autism behaviors after noninvasive cerebral trans-magnetic stimulation using customized frequency modulation: follow-up mean 24 months

This study explores the use of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) with customized frequency modulation to treat autism behaviors. Data from 141 patients showed significant improvements in Child Autism Rating Scale (CARS) scores after 12 months. Results suggest TMS is a safe, non-invasive option, with notable improvements in taste, smell, touch, fear, and communication.

Brain image

ASD

The Potential of Magnetic Resonant Therapy in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

This abstract explains that Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a brain condition that’s becoming more common, affecting how people interact and communicate. Tests like MRI and EEG show differences in brain activity in children with ASD. Magnetic Resonant Therapy (MRT), already approved for PTSD and depression, is being studied as a safe and promising treatment for ASD.

Brain image

ASD

The Speed of Alpha-Band Oscillations Predicts the Temporal Resolution of Visual Perception

This study details that brainwaves called alpha oscillations play a role in how we react to what we see. Faster alpha rhythms are linked to better visual discrimination and quicker reactions. Researchers tested how changes in alpha frequency affect the ability to distinguish between two quick visual flashes, finding evidence that alpha rhythms influence visual perception timing.

Brain image

ASD

EEG Analytics for Early Detection of Autism Spectrum Disorder: A data-driven approach

This study highlights the use of EEG, a simple and low-cost brain measurement, to detect Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) early. Researchers studied EEG data from infants as young as 3 months and found it could accurately predict ASD with over 95% accuracy. These findings suggest that EEG could serve as an useful tool for early ASD detection during routine checkups to monitor brain development.

Brain image

ASD

Autism spectrum disorders: linking neuropathological findings to treatment with transcranial magnetic stimulation

Postmortem studies in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) individuals indicate the presence of abnormalities within the peripheral neuropil space (PNS) of cortical minicolumns. The geometrical orientation of inhibitory elements within the PNS suggests using repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) to up-regulate their activity.

Brain image

ASD

TMS Treatment for Autism: What is it and Does it Work?

Talk about transcranial magnetic stimulation, or TMS therapy, is raising hopes of parents who wonder if the treatment could work for their child with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

Parents with children on the spectrum are wary of the term “cure”. For some, it’s because they’ve been disappointed by snakeoil and false hope more than they care to remember; for others, the term “cure” seems more fitting to a disease. 

Brain image

ASD

Noninvasive EEG-EKG guided trans-magnetic stimulation at natural resonance frequency in children with autism: randomized double-blinded pilot study

This study focused on the differences children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) show in brain activity compared to typically developing kids. These differences, seen in EEG tests, may disrupt brain connections. Transmagnetic Stimulation (TMS), a non-invasive treatment, is being explored to improve these brain connections and potentially help children with ASD.

Brain image

ASD

TMS and Autism – 2021 Research Updates

Manuel Casanova, MD, discusses Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation and its potential for treating autism. He details the cerebral cortex development and notes revealed differences in mini-columnar morphology and gamma oscillations in individuals with autism.

Casanova describes TMS treatments and outlines studies that correlated TMS sessions and increased cognitive abilities. He posits that TMS could shift our focus from symptomatic treatments to interventions that target core pathologies of autism.

Brain image

ASD

TMS Therapy Holds Promise for Autism , Complex analysis of brain activity guides novel therapeutics for autism.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition affecting 1 in 36 children, with boys being diagnosed five times more often than girls. As with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), girls are frequently underdiagnosed or present differently, which can delay recognition. Autism manifests with challenges in social communication and interaction, alongside restricted and repetitive behaviors, interests, or activities, as outlined in the DSM-5. Symptoms often emerge early in life, ranging from mild to severe, though milder cases may go unnoticed as individuals “mask” symptoms to blend in socially, delaying diagnosis and treatment.

Brain image

ASD

Assessing and Stabilizing Aberrant Neuroplasticity in Autism Spectrum Disorder: The Potential Role of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation

Exciting developments have taken place in the neuroscience research in autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and results from these studies indicate that brain in ASD is associated with aberrant neuroplasticity.

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) has rapidly evolved to become a widely used, safe, and non-invasive neuroscientific tool to investigate a variety of neurophysiological processes, including neuroplasticity. The diagnostic and therapeutic potential of TMS in ASD is beginning to be realized.

Brain image

ASD

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) in autism spectrum disorder: protocol for a multicentre randomised controlled clinical trial

There are no well-established biomedical treatments for the core symptoms of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). A small number of studies suggest that repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), a non-invasive brain stimulation technique, may improve clinical and cognitive outcomes in ASD.

We describe here the protocol for a funded multicentre randomised
controlled clinical trial to investigate whether a course of
rTMS to the right temporoparietal junction (rTPJ), which has demonstrated abnormal brain activation in ASD, can improve social communication in adolescents and young adults with ASD

Brain image

ASD

Treatment Response of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation in Intellectually Capable Youth and Young Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

The results of our systematic review and meta-analysis data indicate that TMS may offer a promising and safe treatment option for pediatric and young adult patients with ICASD. However, future work should include use of neuronavigation software, theta burst protocols, targeting of various brain regions, and robust study design before clinical recommendations can be made.

Brain image

ASD

High-Frequency Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Applied to the Parietal Cortex for Low-Functioning Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Case Series

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a safe and efficacious technique to stimulate specific areas of cortical dysfunction in several neuropsychiatric diseases; however, it is not known whether high-frequency rTMS (HF-rTMS) over the left inferior parietal lobule, in low functioning children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), improves core symptoms.

Brain image

ASD

Exploratory Study of rTMS Neuromodulation Effects on Electrocortical Functional Measures of Performance in an Oddball Test and Behavioral Symptoms in Autism, May 2018

There is no accepted pathology to autism spectrum disorders (ASD) but research suggests the presence of an altered excitatory/inhibitory (E/I) bias in the cerebral cortex. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) offers a non-invasive means of modulating the E/I cortical bias with little in terms of side effects. In this study, 124 high functioning ASD children (IQ > 80, <18 years of age) were recruited and assigned using randomization to either a waitlist group or one of three different number of weekly rTMS sessions (i.e., 6, 12, and 18). 

Brain image

ASD

Study of the role of the transcranial magnetic stimulation on language progress in autism spectrum disorder

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition. Core ASD signs include social contact impairments and limited and repeated habits and actions starting in the early developmental period [1]. Most patients with ASD are given psychotropic drugs somewhere in their lives [2].
ASD evaluation is focused on findings and behavioral evaluations using psychiatric disorder Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM) or International Disease Classification (ICD) guidelines. The brain networks responsible for high-level abilities that are compromised as part of core ASD features are complicated, needing several brain regions to be incorporated effectively.

Brain image

ASD

Effects of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation on children with low‐function autism

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a very complex neurodevelopmental
disorder, characterized by social difficulties and stereotypical or repetitive behavior.
Some previous studies using low‐frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) have proven of benefit in ASD children.
In this study, 32 children (26 males and six females) with low‐function
autism were enrolled, 16 children (three females and 13 males; mean ± SD age:7.8 ± 2.1 years) received rTMS treatment twice every week, while the remaining 16 children (three females and 13 males; mean ± SD age: 7.2 ± 1.6 years) served as waitlist group.

Brain image

ASD

Noninvasive reduction of neural rigidity alters autistic behaviors in humans

Autistic behaviors correlate with reductions in specific brain-state
transitions in global neural dynamics, implying that the mitigation of such rigid brain dynamics may alter autistic traits. To examine this possibility, we investigated longitudinal behavioral effects of state-dependent transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) in autistic adults. We found that excitatory TMS over the right parietal lobule decreased neural rigidity, which commensurately reduced social and nonsocial autistic behaviors. Specifically, TMS-induced neural flexibility immediately decreased cognitive inflexibility and slowly reduced overstable perception and a typical nonverbal communication

Brain image

ASD

Transcranial magnetic stimulation in autism spectrum disorder: Challenges, promise, and roadmap for future research

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a behaviorally defined complex neurodevelopmental syndrome characterized by impairments in social communication, by the presence of restricted and repetitive behaviors, interests and activities, and by abnormalities in sensory reactivity.

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a promising, emerging tool for the study and potential treatment of ASD. Recent studies suggest that TMS measures provide rapid and noninvasive pathophysiological ASD biomarkers. Furthermore, repetitive TMS (rTMS) may represent a novel treatment strategy for reducing some of the core and associated ASD symptoms. 

Brain image

ASD

Safety and tolerability of transcranial magnetic and direct current stimulation in children: Prospective single center evidence from 3.5 million stimulations

To determine the safety and tolerability of non-invasive neurostimulation in children across diverse modalities of stimulation and pediatric populations.
A non-invasive brain stimulation program was established in 2008 at our pediatric, academic institution. Multi-disciplinary neurophysiological studies included single- and paired-pulse Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) methods. Motor mapping employed robotic TMS. Interventional trials included repetitive TMS (rTMS) and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS). Standardized safety and tolerability measures were completed prospectively by all participants.

Brain image

ASD

A retrospective chart review to assess the impact of alpha-guided transcranial magnetic stimulation on symptoms of PTSD and depression in active-duty special operations service members, 21 June 2024.

“This data provides a demonstration of significant reduction in PTSD and depression symptoms and safety with the application of a-rTMS in active-duty special operations military personnel. Expansion of targeted neuromodulation programs could be impactful for military and civilian populations.”

Brain image

PTSD

Magnetic Resonance Therapy Improves Clinical Phenotype and EEG Alpha Power in Post-traumatic Stress Disorder

Magnetic Resonance Therapy (MeRT) has shown statistically significant clinical improvements in patients suffering from PTSD. The study was conducted on a sample size of 21 veterans that were consecutively treated for PTSD. The veterans after magnetic brain stimulation showed more normalized heart rates on average and stabler brain activity based on EEG test results.

Brain image

PTSD

Magnetic E-Resonant therapy alleviates combat related post-traumatic stress disorder

The study conducted was to observe and understand how transcranial MeRT may provide an alternative method to veterans suffering from PTSD. The sample size involved U.S. Service members who have served in Iraq and Afghanistan who were enrolled and completed MeRT treatment. Results showed that MeRT was a promising treatment that might help veterans suffering from PTSD.

Brain image

PTSD

Traumatic brain injury An EEG point of view

This review focuses on how EEG can detect brain activity changes caused by mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), often called a “silent epidemic.” EEG tests show slower brain rhythms after injury, which may gradually return to normal. While no specific EEG features uniquely diagnose mTBI, research shows promise in using EEG for understanding recovery and predicting outcomes.

Brain image

TBI

Making Waves in the Brain: What Are Oscillations, and Why Modulating Them Makes Sense for Brain Injury

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) can cause lasting cognitive and emotional issues. Research shows that TBI disrupts brain rhythms, but low-frequency electrical stimulation may help restore these rhythms and improve memory and learning. This approach, inspired by treatments for Parkinson’s disease and epilepsy, could offer a new way to aid recovery in TBI patients.

Brain image

TBI

Book Your Appointment Today

At Novara Healthcare, we provide comprehensive therapies like MeRT, prioritizing our patient’s unique needs. Through our utilization of cutting-edge technology and personalized care plans, our dedicated team will deliver excellent ASD treatment to address the various needs of each patient. If you’re seeking Depression Treatment, consult with us today and take the first step on the path to a brighter future.