Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) has been found to help relieve migraines.  TMS is an electromagnetic device that changes the electrical currents in the brain without any pain or discomfort.

TMS was first studied by Anthony Barker of England in 1985.  By using magnets instead of an electrical current, he was able to map the conduction of nerve impulse in the brain and spinal cord on patients in the study.  Had he used the traditional electrical current, the patients would have felt slight pain.

The use of TMS can alter the nerve activity in the brain.  It is usually safe.  However, patients with a previous history of strokes may have seizures following a session with TMS.  It can also cause seizures in healthy individuals when applied with a high frequency and intensity.

Transcranial magnetic stimulation may be applied with a single electrical pulse or utilizing repetitive pulses, known as rTMS.  The side effects of rTMS may include pain on the skin and muscles in the area that was stimulated by rTMS.  In more severe cases, burns to the area of stimulation may result from rTMS.

Researchers at Ohio State University conducted a study on patients with migraines.  They used a portable transcranial magnetic stimulator for this study, in the hopes that one day this portable version can be mass-produced.  The stimulation was applied to the head at the start of a migraine.  About 39% of the patients reported that they were pain-free two hours following the application of this device.

One day, this device will be readily available for patients suffering from migraines to use in their own homes.  In the meantime, migraine sufferers can rely on natural migraine ingredients to provide optimal health benefits.