The Science Behind Safe, At-Home Brain Stimulation for Migraine and More
If you’ve heard of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) but aren’t sure how it works—or what makes eNeura’s sTMS device different—this post is for you.
We believe that the more you understand your treatment, the more empowered you are to take control of your health. So let’s break it down.
What Is sTMS?
sTMS stands for single-pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation. It’s a non-invasive neuromodulation technique that uses brief magnetic pulses to influence brain activity—without drugs, surgery, or sedation.
eNeura’s FDA-cleared device delivers a single magnetic pulse through the scalp to target specific brain regions that are known to be involved in migraine—and possibly in other neurological and mood conditions.
The result? Relief, prevention, and long-term control.
The Technology: Safe, Simple, and Clinically Proven
At the heart of the sTMS device is a highly controlled electromagnetic coil that emits a painless pulse lasting less than one millisecond. This pulse safely passes through the skull and into the cortex (the outermost layer of the brain), modulating the neurons involved in sensory processing and pain regulation.
Key features:
- Non-invasive: No needles, implants, or incisions
- Non-systemic: No drugs or chemical absorption
- Self-administered: Patients treat themselves at home
- FDA-cleared: Approved for the acute and preventive treatment of migraine in adolescents and adults
eNeura’s technology is also being studied for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and PTSD, due to its ability to target multiple brain networks.
Why the Occipital Cortex?
Unlike traditional rTMS, which targets the prefrontal cortex in a clinical setting, eNeura’s sTMS device is positioned at the back of the head to stimulate the occipital cortex—a region involved in visual processing, sensory sensitivity, and cortical spreading depression (a migraine hallmark).
Stimulating this area has been shown to:
- Interrupt migraine activity before it becomes debilitating
- Lower brain hyperexcitability, a key trigger for attacks
- Modulate pain networks without medication
Patients report less frequent, less intense, and shorter attacks—often with fewer side effects than oral medications.
How It’s Used: At Home, On Your Terms
Each patient receives a personalized treatment protocol prescribed by their doctor. The lightweight device is placed at the back of the head, and with the press of a button, a single magnetic pulse is delivered.
The device connects to an app that tracks treatments, offers reminders, and helps monitor progress over time. Usage data can also be shared with your physician or care team.
There are two main types of use:
- Acute treatment: At the onset of a migraine to interrupt the attack
- Preventive use: Daily or scheduled pulses to reduce overall migraine frequency
Safe for Daily Use
sTMS is:
- Well-tolerated, with no systemic side effects
- Safe for adolescents (ages 12+) and adults
- Compatible with other medications or therapies
- Free of sedation, scalp pain, or downtime
That’s why it’s increasingly used in special populations such as veterans, pregnant women, adolescents, and those with medication sensitivities.
Looking Ahead: One Platform, Many Possibilities
While sTMS is currently FDA-cleared for migraine, we’re expanding clinical research into:
- Depression and PTSD
- Dual diagnosis (migraine + mood disorders)
- Hormone-linked migraine and mood instability
- Neuroinflammatory conditions
- Personalized neuromodulation protocols
With its precision, safety, and portability, eNeura’s sTMS platform is poised to revolutionize the way we treat brain-based conditions—starting with migraine and extending far beyond.
Interested in Seeing if sTMS Is Right for You?
Whether you’re a patient, clinician, or health plan leader, we’d love to help you explore how sTMS can fit into your care strategy.
