What is Pulsed Electromagnetic Field therapy?
Pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) devices emit a magnetic field when an electric current is conducted through material in the device. There are two main types of magnetic fields that have been studied in veterinary medicine: static magnetic fields that emit a continuous field and low frequency pulsed electromagnetic fields.
Manufacturers of PEMF devices use materials differently to create distinct fields with differing frequencies and intensities. Different types of fields are believed to affect tissues in the body (skin, muscle, tendon, bone) differently.
Will PEMF therapy help my pet?
Currently, solid clinical evidence proving the clear benefit of PEMF therapy is lacking. Some studies show positive benefits while others show no difference when compared with placebo. This may be due to the variation in parameters used in treatment such as the intensity and frequency of the magnetic field, the length of time it was applied to the pet, as well as how frequently it was applied. More research is needed.
PEMF output varies depending on the manufacturer. It is important to know what specific signal is produced by the device and what evidence the manufacturer has to support their recommendations.
What benefits could PEMF therapy have?
PEMF therapy is believed to have benefits for many conditions:
Inadequate or decreased bone healing: The magnetic field in PEMF therapy is believed to influence bone repair at the cellular level. It is not believed to shorten the time of healing but can be beneficial in fractures that aren’t healing well (non-union or delayed union).
Osteoarthritis: PEMF therapy may benefit patients with osteoarthritis due to a potential anti-inflammatory effect on the joints and surrounding tissues.
Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD): PEMF therapy is believed to have a neuroprotective effect and so may be a useful complementary therapy in patients with intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) and other neurologic conditions. In patients with acute IVDD/flareup managed without surgery, PEMF should be done very cautiously as it could worsen injury.
PEMF therapy is also believed to reduce pain and improve wound healing.
Are there any contraindications to using PEMF therapy?
Pets or owners with a pacemaker should not be exposed to PEMF therapy. PEMF therapy may also cause reproductive problems, so pregnant animals, pregnant owners, or women trying to conceive should not be exposed. PEMF therapy can worsen fungal infection. Any pets with skin lesions should have fungal causes ruled out before therapy.
