Neuromodulation is having positive results in treatment of certain complex or challenging neuropsychiatric conditions, according to the first systematic review of its kind.

Canadian researchers have found that transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) in particular appears effective in treating functional motor symptoms among patients with functional neurological disorder (FND) or somatic symptom disorder (SSD).

Given the lack of treatment options beyond psychoeducation, CBT and physical therapy, the University of Toronto-led researchers say neuromodulation strategies targeting brain network dysfunction warrant further exploration.

They cautioned, however, that the overall strength of the evidence was limited by mixed study quality and small sample sizes, making it difficult to draw conclusions with certainty.