Overview

Pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) therapy is a non-invasive therapy using devices that emit low-frequency electromagnetic fields with no skin contact.

PEMF therapy is based on the theory that the magnetic field enhances circulation and healing and improves well-being. It has anti-inflammatory effects which might contribute to its effects on pain and swelling. There are many different PEMF devices used in therapy.

People use PEMF therapy for back pain, fractures, osteoarthritis, and pain after surgery. It is also used for cancer, depression, fibromyalgia, high blood pressure, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support most of these uses.

Some PEMF devices have been cleared as medical devices by the US FDA.



Uses & Effectiveness

Possibly Effective for

  • Back pain. PEMF therapy seems to help reduce chronic low back pain. It's not clear if it helps relieve sudden back pain.
  • Fractures. PEMF therapy seems to help heal certain types of bone fractures.
  • Osteoarthritis. PEMF therapy seems to improve pain from osteoarthritis, especially knee osteoarthritis.
  • Pain after surgery. PEMF therapy might slightly reduce pain after some types of surgery.

There is interest in using PEMF therapy for a number of other purposes, but there isn't enough reliable information to say whether it might be helpful.

Side Effects



Special Precautions and Warnings



PEMF therapy is possibly safe when used appropriately. It's been used under medical supervision without any major safety concerns. It's generally well-tolerated.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if PEMF therapy is safe to use while pregnant or breast-feeding. Avoid use.

Interactions

We currently have no information for Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (PEMF) Therapy overview.

Dosing

PEMF therapy is a non-invasive therapy using specific devices that emit low-intensity and low-frequency electromagnetic fields. Specific devices have been cleared by the US FDA for use for certain conditions, including Provant Therapy System (Regenesis Biomedical) and SofPulse Duo (Ivivi Technologies, Inc.). Devices vary in size and location of use.

PEMF therapy sessions may last from 5 minutes up to 4 hours, with multiple sessions daily or weekly. Be sure to seek and follow directions from your physician or other healthcare professional before using PEMF therapy.
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CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you.

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