What Are PEMF Therapy Devices and How to Choose One for Your Needs?

Devices equipped with pulsed electromagnetic therapy (PEMF) offer a convenient and non-invasive way to treat pain and promote wound healing faster. They use low-frequency electromagnetic energy and have become a popular choice for fitness enthusiasts or people with chronic conditions.

What are PEMF therapy devices?

PEMF devices use pulsed electromagnetic field technology to deliver low-frequency electromagnetic waves to the body. In recent years, these devices have gained significant popularity, especially among athletes, as studies have found that PEMF therapy may help enhance post-workout recovery. 

PEMF devices also offer a convenient way for people seeking alternative wellness treatments that target pain and stiffness with little to no side effects. 

The use of PEMF therapy is supported by scientific studies, but there is limited data on long-term safety.

Discover the benefits of PEMF therapy devices and tips for selecting the right one by visiting Healthnews.

Types of PEMF therapy devices

These are the types of PEMF therapy devices you can find on the market:

• PEMF mats. PEMF mats are one of the most popular PEMF devices. They are flat, so you can either lie or sit on them as they produce electromagnetic pulses in your body. They may be beneficial for full-body therapy, as they can target different areas, like your hips, back, and legs. Mats may help reduce stress and improve chronic pain.
• Wearable devices. These are small devices designed for targeted therapy. You can find bands, bracelets, or patches that wrap around your wrist or knee, for example. Wearable devices can be a great purchase if you want to treat localised pain from arthritis.
• Portable devices. Does your neck feel tense and are you about to attend a meeting? Portable PEMF devices are compact and battery-powered, and they offer instant relief from muscle tension for busy individuals. They target specific areas, like your neck or shoulders.
• Pads or cushions. These are similar to mats but are smaller. They are designed for localised treatment and can be useful if you have lower back pain. These can be a great option if you work on your computer for long hours or have a back pain disorder.
• Clinical-grade machines. These are large devices used in chiropractic or physiotherapy clinics. The emitted electromagnetic waves are more intense, and sessions take place under the supervision of a trained practitioner.

Medical professionals may recommend attending these PEMF sessions if you have a severe or chronic condition.

What to consider when choosing a PEMF therapy device

If your pain is localised, for example, you have knee or shoulder discomfort, you may consider buying a wearable or portable device. If you have a chronic condition, like fibromyalgia, a PEMF mat may be ideal, as this targets the whole body. 

If you are new to PEMF therapy, look for a device that comes with user-friendly controls and is easy to set up. 

What is your schedule like? If you are always on the go, a portable or wearable device might be best, as these offer immediate relief. 

PEMF devices have different intensity levels, and these depend on your condition. For example, if you have intense chronic pain, you may choose a product with higher intensity. Lower pulses may require frequent use to experience the PEMF’s healing benefits.

Choose a product approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to ensure that it is safe. For more guidance, consult a medical professional.

Benefits of PEMF therapy devices

PEMF therapy devices have some benefits. These include:

• Improved fracture healing. Research suggests that PEMF therapy may speed up the healing process and reduce the pain that bone fractures cause. More data on healing time may be needed, as current evidence is of very low quality.
• Improved relief in osteoarthritis. If you have knee osteoarthritis, PEMF therapy devices may restore physical function, lower pain, and address stiffness.
• Improved wound healing. A 2020 study in rats found that using PEMF devices at 5 and 10 millitesla (mT) can help wounds heal faster.
• Reduced back pain. According to a systematic review of randomised controlled trials, PEMF may lower pain intensity in people with low back pain problems. 

Potential risks and side effects

It’s always best to seek medical help before using PEMF devices. These come with risks and may interact with any other medical devices you use. 

Here are the potential risks of PEMF therapy devices:

• Lack of long-term evidence. Studies show insufficient evidence on the effectiveness and long-term adverse effects of PEMF devices. Some products do not meet safety standards, so you should always consult your doctor before making your purchase.
• Alcohol and caffeine interaction. Alcohol and caffeine can interact with PEMF and affect its healing properties. That said, avoid drinking beverages containing alcohol or caffeine 24 hours before using a PEMF product.
• PEMF can heat up metallic devices. One study advises against using PEMF devices close to a pacemaker. A medical professional can create a treatment plan for you that is safe for your symptoms and does not interfere with the implanted device.
• Lack of data on pregnancy safety. If you are pregnant, your doctor can help create a treatment plan for you, which includes lifestyle choices. To date, there are no clinical studies discussing PEMF safety or contraindications in people who are pregnant.

How to use a PEMF device safely

If you are considering undergoing PEMF therapy, book an appointment with a doctor to discuss safety and risks. However, these are some tips that you can follow to use your PEMF device safely:

• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions. These should include setup guidelines, placement schedules, and maintenance and care information.
• Start with low settings. Select the lowest frequency if you are a beginner to PEMF. Increase the intensity gradually as your body adjusts to the PEMF.
• Wear loose-fitting clothing. This makes it easier for the electromagnetic pulses to pass through and reach the areas you want to target.
• Set the right duration. This depends on your symptoms. A 2017 study found that PEMF sessions longer than three hours were more effective on fracture nonunions than shorter sessions.
• Listen to your body. See how you feel during the session. If you feel some kind of discomfort, discontinue use and talk with your doctor if symptoms persist.

PEMF therapy devices have become a popular choice for people looking for alternative therapy to manage their pain and overall wellness. You can buy mats, wearables, or portable devices, depending on your diagnosis and lifestyle. It is also important to compare features and check pricing, ease of use, FDA approval, and intensity levels. 

But a medical professional can help, as PEMF might not be safe for everyone. 

Have you used a PEMF therapy device before? Share your experiences or ask any questions in the comments below—we’d love to hear from you!

FAQs

• How do I know which PEMF therapy device is right for me? There are a lot of factors to consider. This depends on your health goals, FDA approval, portability, and ease of use, among other things. Compare products and consult your physician.
• How long does it take to see results from PEMF? Results vary. Some feel relief after a few sessions if symptoms are mild. Others may notice improvements after weeks of consistent use.
• How long do PEMF devices typically last? Most last five years or longer with proper care. Wearables, though, have shorter lifespans. Check the warranty and build quality. Some products also come with a return policy – this means that you can return them within a specific timeframe if you are not satisfied.

Tim Fawnshaw, a psychology graduate from the University of Hertfordshire, has a keen interest in the fields of mental health, wellness, and lifestyle.