Mr. Pawin's Experience: How Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) Empowered My Rehabilitation Journey

Interview with Mr. Pawin 

Interviewer : How are you feeling after completing one full month of treatment and rehabilitation?

Mr. Pawin: I have now completed exactly one month, and I have improved significantly. My body feels much stronger and fitter. When I first arrived with symptoms of paralysis and hemiparesis, I needed support to walk. Walking was difficult, and I had muscle pain and nerve compression extending to my neck. Now I can walk. One of the treatments I received was TMS, which uses magnetic stimulation to stimulate the brain and support muscle function.

Interviewer: How is your brain’s ability to control your movements now?

Mr. Pawin : When I first arrived, if I had to describe my condition as a percentage, it was around 50%, or perhaps even below 50%. Now I would estimate it at approximately 90%. I have improved significantly. I can support myself while walking, use the bathroom, shower, and take care of myself independently. 

Interviewer: What was your condition like before receiving treatment?

Mr. Pawin: Before coming here, my physical condition was extremely poor. My body and muscles were weak, and I had an ischemic stroke. An MRI showed narrowing of the blood vessels in my brain. I had partial paralysis and hemiparesis, and the condition was becoming quite severe. The ischemic stroke affected my balance. I could not stand, walk quickly, or move properly, so I consulted the physician and enrolled in a one-month residential rehabilitation program here. This was not surgical treatment. It was a rehabilitation program involving properly managed meals and medications administered at the correct times every day. At home, I did not always eat or take my medication on time. Here, everything was organized systematically—medication and meals were provided on schedule, followed by physical therapy. I had severe shoulder pain and nerve compression, but the physical therapy team, located on the ground floor, treated these problems as part of the same program. My shoulder recovered, and the pain improved. I used to experience shoulder pain after sleeping on it, but that no longer happens. My back has also improved, and I can walk independently without pain. Previously, I would wake up in pain every morning. The treatment included massage and physical therapy, without requiring additional pain medication. The TMS equipment was also very effective. It was my first experience with magnetic stimulation, which provided stimulation while supporting my rehabilitation. Previously, my legs, toenails, toes, and fingers felt numb. My hand and fingers have now improved and move normally, although some numbness remains in my toes. After completing the main rehabilitation program, I plan to continue with weekly sessions to maintain muscle stability and strength.

Mr. Pawin: I can move more easily, and my balance has improved. Previously, when sitting like this and trying to stand, I needed someone to support me and stand nearby in front and behind me. Now I can stand up independently. I can shower, use the bathroom, dress, and care for myself without assistance. My right toes used to feel numb constantly, but the sensation is gradually returning.

Interviewer: Could you turn around and show us?

Mr. Pawin: In the past, whenever I tried to turn around, I would lose my balance and spin uncontrollably.

Mr. Pawin: This equipment has been very helpful. It is one of the simplest and most comfortable treatments I have experienced. It is painless and does not require medication. Magnetic stimulation is applied to the brain, supporting the brain’s signals and helping the muscles gradually become stronger. Previously, using my muscles was very difficult, but now I feel much more comfortable.

Interviewer: Can you climb the stairs now?

Mr. Pawin: Yes. I could not climb stairs before. I still hold the handrail slightly for safety because my shoes can be slippery. Without shoes, I think I could climb the stairs without holding on, but it is safer to use the handrail.