PEMF Therapy (Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy)
Research has shown that low energy pulsating magnetic fields can produce remarkable positive changes within the body. In fact, the body itself has it’s own magnetic field which can be measured as far as 15 feet away from the body. Each cell of the body has an electrical current that allows it to function properly. Nerves in particular use electrical currents to send signals throughout the body. These signals allow proper physical movements, thoughts, feelings, sensory perceptions, etc. Each type of tissue also has particular frequencies which allow that specific tissue to function and heal as nature intended. When the electrical chemistry of the body is out of balance, then a range of subtle problems can start to appear: low energy and stamina, insomnia, headaches, slow healing from injury, poor balance, nervousness, general aches, etc.
Research on PEMFs
Over the last five decades, researchers have found that low intensity low frequency electromagnetic fields (called pulsed electromagnetic fields, or PEMFs) can have regulating and healing effects in several types of human and animal tissues. Originally it was shown to heal fractured bones that were not connecting (non-union fractures). This finding alone has been a major benefit for those who could access this treatment. Updated research (see below), has now found that PEMFs can also improve various other types of tissue and has been shown to help a range of health problems, such as treatment-resistant depression, arthritis, soft tissue pain and inflammation (including the associated swelling and redness), many degenerative problems, etc.
What do PEMFs Do?
PEMF therapy utilizes extremely low frequencies at low intensity, in a pulsed format to penetrate your whole body (or the part specifically being treated). This shifts the cells in several ways.
• Firstly, it makes cells resonate better with the natural background magnetic field of the Earth (0-30 Hz frequency); this enables the cells to metabolically function better, which is one missing key to allow cellular repair and maintenance to happen. This may happen through various mechanisms such as by activating stem cells which are present in most organs/tissues.
• Secondly, PEMFs help combat free radical stress (oxidative stress) by activating your body’s built-in antioxidant enzyme system. This helps protect your body’s ability to generate energy (a common benefit of PEMF treatment) and to encourage resolution of inflammation.
• Third, PEMF helps to promote microcirculation and thereby helps oxygenate your body better; this is also fundamental for healing. There are many other regulating effects of PEMF and I have found it to be a useful adjunctive tool for almost every person, whether to maintain good health, or to help promote healing in those who have recurring or chronic symptoms or illness.
Clinical Benefits of PEMF Therapy
In the 1970s, PEMF was originally shown to promote the healing of bones which had a difficulty connecting. Over the past few decades, much more research has found PEMF to be beneficial in several types of clinical scenarios.
PEMF Therapy May Benefit
• Balance • Soft tissue injuries • Bone fractures • Osteoporosis • Chronic pain and inflammation • Acute pain, post-operative pain • Arthritis (eg: osteoarthritis) • Headaches • Depression • Insomnia • Poor circulation • Parkinson’s disease • Multiple Sclerosis
Clinical Studies on PEMF Therapy
• Bone fractures – improved bone healing https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30955053
• Osteoporosis – improved bone mass and strength/density https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28665487
• Non-specific low back pain – reduced back pain after 6 weeks, benefits persisted at 12 weeks https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30868475
• Post-operative pain after low back surgery – reduced leg pain with PEMF treatment https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29950893
• Multiple sclerosis-related pain https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29752033
• Parkinson’s disease movement – improved force of movements with 8 weeks of PEMF https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/30252895
• Improved balance with PEMF https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11121885
• Decreased postsurgical pain, analgesic use and surgical wound edema after C-section https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28060214
• Knee osteoarthritis – Pain reduction and improved knee function after 4 and 8 weeks of PEMF https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22504115
• Treatment-resistant depression – 5 weeks of PEMF led to significant improvements in depression including remission while continuing anti-depressant medication https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28385173
• Persistent venous leg ulcers – significantly improved healing with PEMF https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1390143
• Reduced post-operative pain and narcotic use after breast-reduction surgery https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20527063/
• Improved chronic sinusitis in children with PEMF therapy – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/31749951
PEMF Treatment
After initial assessment, PEMF treatments last 30-60 minutes, depending on the specific health concern. Some experience mild warmth, itchiness or tingling, which is a sign of enhanced circulation. To see if PEMF is a good option for your health maintenance and promotion, call or contact us to arrange your assessment visit – 905-597-7201.
