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Transcranial magnetic stimulation in motor recovery after stroke

  • May 17, 2025
  • 2 min read


Stroke is a leading cause of long-term disability worldwide, often leaving survivors with significant motor impairments. In recent years, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) has emerged as a promising, non-invasive method to promote motor recovery after stroke. TMS uses magnetic fields to stimulate specific areas of the brain, potentially reactivating neural pathways and improving motor function. This technique is gaining traction as both a stand-alone therapy and as an adjunct to physical rehabilitation.


Understanding TMS and How It Works:

TMS involves placing a magnetic coil near the scalp, which sends magnetic pulses to targeted areas of the brain. These pulses can either excite or inhibit neural activity, depending on the frequency used. After a stroke, the affected hemisphere of the brain often becomes less active, while the unaffected side may become overactive. TMS aims to restore balance between the two hemispheres by either stimulating the damaged area or suppressing the overactive one.


TMS in Post-Stroke Motor Recovery:

Studies have shown that TMS can significantly enhance motor recovery in stroke patients, particularly when applied early in the recovery process. The treatment helps in re-establishing motor control by promoting neuroplasticity—the brain's ability to reorganize itself. When combined with conventional therapies like physiotherapy and occupational therapy, TMS has been found to accelerate improvements in limb strength, coordination, and mobility.


Types of TMS Used for Stroke Patients:

  • Repetitive TMS (rTMS): This involves delivering multiple magnetic pulses over a specific period. High-frequency rTMS (above 5 Hz) is used to excite underactive brain regions, while low-frequency rTMS (1 Hz) is used to inhibit overactive regions.

  • Theta Burst Stimulation (TBS): A newer form of TMS that delivers bursts of high-frequency stimulation over short durations. TBS is more efficient and requires shorter treatment times.


Safety and Side Effects:TMS is generally safe, with most patients experiencing only mild side effects such as headache or scalp discomfort. Serious complications like seizures are extremely rare when the procedure is administered by trained professionals. However, not all stroke patients are suitable candidates, and thorough medical evaluation is essential before beginning treatment.


Conclusion:Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation is a promising frontier in post-stroke rehabilitation. As research evolves, TMS may become a standard part of stroke recovery protocols, offering renewed hope for survivors striving to regain their independence. Early intervention and integration with conventional therapies can greatly enhance outcomes.


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About Dr. Viveck Baluja and KneeTie Vascular Neurology

Dr. Viveck Baluja, MD, is a board-certified vascular neurologist (American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology — Vascular Neurology) practicing telemedicine across California, Michigan, and Colorado, with additional consultation services available to international families, particularly in India.

KneeTie offers three focused services: emergency stroke second opinions delivered within 24 hours, traumatic brain injury (TBI) consultations for survivors and caregivers, and same-day adult ADHD evaluations for residents of CA, MI, and CO.

Stroke Second Opinion

After a stroke, families often have minutes to make decisions. Dr. Baluja provides a second set of expert eyes from a board-certified vascular neurologist — reviewing imaging, hospital records, and current treatment — typically within 24 hours of request. Common questions include: Was tPA appropriate? Should we pursue thrombectomy? What is the recovery outlook? What rehabilitation makes sense?

TBI Consultation

Traumatic brain injury recovery is rarely linear. Dr. Baluja helps patients and families understand recovery timelines, treatment options, post-concussion syndrome, and red flags that warrant emergency evaluation. Consultations typically last 50 minutes and are scheduled within the same week.

Same-Day Adult ADHD Evaluation

A real evaluation by a board-certified neurologist — not a 7-minute screening. Dr. Baluja's ADHD evaluations include comprehensive history, sleep and lifestyle assessment, and behavioral strategy alongside any medication discussion. Available same-day for residents of California, Michigan, and Colorado.

Why a Vascular Neurologist?

Vascular neurology is a subspecialty focused on stroke, cerebrovascular disease, and brain blood flow — among the rarest neurology subspecialties in the U.S. Most online telehealth services use general practitioners or nurse practitioners. KneeTie is led by a board-certified vascular neurologist with full state licensure and HIPAA-compliant telehealth infrastructure.

Schedule a consultation: Use the booking calendar above to choose a service and reserve a time. For active stroke or post-tPA emergencies, email gorungo@kneetie.com directly with "URGENT" in the subject line.

© 2020 KneeTie, Jagannatha Health LLC 

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