Effect of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation on trigeminal-mediated headshaking in 17 horses.
Authors: Franzen Vanessa, Gruber Nina Alexandra, Klußmann Sven, Schoster Angelika, May Anna
Journal: Journal of veterinary internal medicine
Summary
# Editorial Summary: Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for Equine Trigeminal-Mediated Headshaking Trigeminal-mediated headshaking represents a poorly understood neuropathic pain condition affecting the facial region in horses, with existing therapeutic options offering inconsistent outcomes. Franzen and colleagues investigated whether repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS)—a non-invasive neuromodulatory technique already showing promise in human medicine for trigeminal neuralgia and other neuropathic pain syndromes—could provide clinical benefit in 17 affected horses. The study's findings suggest rTMS warrants serious consideration as an adjunctive treatment option, though the specific efficacy rates and clinical parameters (such as headshaking frequency reduction and duration of response) would be essential to evaluate when determining suitability for individual cases. For equine practitioners managing this frustratingly refractory condition, understanding the neurophysiological basis of rTMS effects may open new therapeutic avenues beyond traditional anticonvulsants, analgesics, and behavioural management strategies. Further investigation into optimal treatment protocols, patient selection criteria, and long-term outcomes will be necessary before rTMS can be routinely integrated into clinical practice guidelines.
Read the full abstract on PubMed
Practical Takeaways
- •rTMS offers a potential new treatment avenue for horses with trigeminal-mediated headshaking, a notoriously difficult condition to manage
- •This non-invasive approach may be considered when conventional treatments have failed, though further evidence is needed to establish efficacy and safety in equine practice
- •Veterinarians managing chronic neuropathic facial pain in horses should monitor emerging evidence on rTMS as a treatment option
Key Findings
- •Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) was applied as a novel therapeutic approach to trigeminal-mediated headshaking in 17 horses
- •rTMS is based on evidence of efficacy in human trigeminal neuralgia and other neuropathic pain conditions
- •This represents an emerging treatment option for a condition where previous interventions have shown limited success