History of Neuromodulation
The evolution of TMS
From standardized stimulation to personalized neuromodulation
For more than 40 years, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) has evolved from a neuroscience research tool into an FDA-cleared treatment approach for multiple neurological and psychiatric conditions.
Over time, advances in TMS have expanded what it can treat, where stimulation is delivered, and how treatment is administered. In 2026, the introduction of MeRT® marked another evolution: using a patient’s own EEG data to personalize the stimulation protocol.
1985
Modern TMS begins
Anthony Barker and colleagues demonstrate noninvasive magnetic stimulation of the human brain.
2008
Depression
The first TMS system is FDA cleared for Major Depressive Disorder.
Approach
rTMS
2013
Migraine
TMS expands beyond psychiatry with FDA clearance for migraine with aura.
Approach
Single-pulse TMS
2018
OCD
TMS gains a new psychiatric indication for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder.
Approach
Deep TMS
2020
Faster treatment
Theta-burst stimulation introduces a shorter FDA-cleared TMS protocol for depression.
Approach
iTBS
2020
Smoking cessation
TMS expands into addiction-related treatment as an aid for short-term smoking cessation.
Approach
Deep TMS
2026
TMS becomes personalized
The FDA clears the MeRT® System for PTSD—bringing EEG-guided personalization to TMS treatment.
MeRT analyzes each patient’s brain activity to determine an individualized stimulation frequency, creating a treatment protocol informed by their own EEG data.
MeRT analyzes each patient’s brain activity to determine an individualized stimulation frequency, creating a treatment protocol informed by their own EEG data.
Indication
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
Approach
Personalized, EEG-Guided Neuromodulation
FDA K260402