Are There Any PEMF Therapy Side Effects You Should Know About?

Pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) therapy offers a new approach to health. It uses electromagnetic fields to potentially reduce pain, lower inflammation, and promote healing without needing medications or other invasive procedures. With the growing interest in alternative treatments, PEMF is becoming increasingly popular for its potential benefits.

In this article, we talk about how PEMF therapy works, its different advantages, and the possible side effects and risk factors you need to consider to make sure the right therapy for you.

What is PEMF therapy?

Pulsed electromagnetic field therapy, known as PEMF, uses electromagnetic energy to target different conditions, particularly muscle and bone disorders. Of the many therapies available, it's non-invasive and uses low-frequency pulses. These pulses can promote electrical currents through the tissues and cells of the body, stimulating various healing pathways.

Some studies suggest PEMF therapy works by affecting receptors on the surface of cells, which can impact biological processes like preventing cell death, stimulating stem cell growth, and influencing cell differentiation, all of which improve function in the body and promote overall health.

PEMF therapy side effects

While generally safe, some side effects, including mild nausea, dizziness, and sensitivity to electric stimulation, have been reported. Most research studies state participants experience no adverse events. However, these are shorter studies with limited exposure to electromagnetic therapy. Other studies investigating long-term exposure report significant side effects that significantly affect quality of life.

For instance, exposure to a magnetic field might have side effects on several major systems, including the peripheral nervous system, cardiovascular system, vestibular system, and brain and cognition. PEMF has also been linked to an increased risk of depression and neurodegenerative disease in utility workers.

Of biggest concern are the long-term side effects of PEMF and exposure. Research suggests that workers at a thermal power plant who are regularly exposed to low-frequency electromagnetic waves were associated with increased DNA damage from lab results. This can increase the risks of seizures, cancer, reproductive issues, and neurodegenerative disease.

Have you had side effects from PEMF? We want to hear about it! Share your experience in the comments below and help educate others on the risks and what to watch out for when trying PEMF.

Risk factors

Despite all of the promising evidence of PEMF therapy, there are some populations that may be in danger of specific adverse effects, meaning it may not be the best option for you.

• Pregnant parents. There is limited research on the side effects of PEMF therapy on developing babies, thus, it's not recommended for people who are expecting.
• People vulnerable to infection. Long-term exposure to PEMF therapy may negatively impact immune function by suppressing the immune system. This could lead to an increased chance of opportunistic infections for those who are vulnerable.
• People with medical implants. PEMF is known to interfere with the function of medical devices like pacemakers. Research has shown that using PEMF therapy on a pacemaker model caused significant malfunctions in the device.

Potential benefits of PEMF therapy

While more research is needed to better understand the long-term effects of PEMF therapy on the body, there are some advantages to the body that it may have.

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Bone-related diseases

Perhaps the best-known clinical application of PEMF is for bone health. Bone mineral density (BMD), the biggest issue in osteoporosis and osteopenia, can be increased using PEMF to support these conditions. Research shows that PEMF combined with exercise significantly increased BMD (bone mineral density) and bone formation markers in men with osteoporosis. These effects were extended to 6-months after therapy, suggesting PEMF could be a good long-term therapy option for patients with BMD disorders.

Inflammatory response

Chronic inflammation has been linked to the majority of medical issues we have today. In particular, a stroke can trigger an inflammatory response that can additionally do more damage to the brain. Preclinical studies demonstrate that PEMF might have a therapeutic effect by reducing swelling and protecting the brain. It may reduce pro-inflammatory molecules that are released after an event like ischemic stroke. While human research is needed to understand the therapeutic role of this in patients, it's a promising result in a condition that can be hard to treat.

Chronic pain

Chronic pain can significantly impact daily function. Non-specific lower back areas can be particularly challenging as the pain can be intense but difficult to treat. A recent review found that PEMF can improve cellular activity, reducing discomfort in patients with lower back pain. Clinical trials using PEMF reported significantly reduced pain symptoms, as well as some studies showing significant improvements in physical function. These findings suggest that further investigation of the therapeutic role could be beneficial in targeting other conditions with prolonged pain.

Muscle soreness

For active people, muscle aches can be a frustrating challenge to a training or workout schedule. PEMF may help reduce muscle soreness after isometric exercises like planks and wall sits. Research reports using PEMF after muscle exercises significantly improved delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) and sped up recovery. Since there is no other established treatment for reducing DOMS, these are meaningful results for reducing muscle aches post-workout in competitive athletes and active individuals.

Hypertension

High blood pressure is a symptom of metabolic disease and a major factor in developing heart disease. Most therapies involve medications, however, they can have negative side effects. Recent research exploring PEMF found it could help regulate blood pressure before and after exercise by increasing blood flow. A clinical trial giving patients with metabolic disease PEMF three times a week for 12 reported significant decreases in blood pressure and an increase in nitric oxide, which helps control blood vessel dilation. This could be an effective non-pharmacological option for patients with metabolic disease or hypertension on its own.

While these findings are promising, the majority of research studies are short-term studies. To fully understand the beneficial effects of PEMF therapy, longer-term studies and clinical trials are needed.

How to practice PEMF therapy safely

To reduce side effects and negative events, knowing how to use PEMF safely is important.

Be sure to choose a certified and properly calibrated device. This will ensure safety and efficacy when you use it. You should also be sure to select a tool that meets your needs. There are a variety of different PEMF therapies with different features and advantages.

Before starting therapy, it's important to set up your machine properly. Read instructions to place the device in the correct areas of your body and make sure it's releasing the right amount of energy for your needs.

It's important to measure your results regularly to assess how well the therapy is working for you. That being said, keep in mind that it may take some time to see improvements or changes. This is also an opportunity to note any side effects that you experience and know when you should talk to your healthcare provider.

PEMF therapy is a promising therapy option with numerous potential health benefits. While most side effects are mild and temporary, it's important to talk to your healthcare professional before starting therapy to make sure it's right for you and your body. Although more research needs to be done to fully understand the long-term effects of PEMF therapy, current findings highlight its safety and potential as a therapy for various health issues.

Have questions? Please share them in the comments below.