Written by Dr. Eric Wood, ND, MA
Did you know that the human body naturally conducts electricity? Did you also know that every organ and cell within the body has its own electromagnetic field? Electricity is flowing through us at all times. In fact, scientists agree that at rest, the human body produces approximately 100 watts of power. Interestingly, research illustrates that certain disease states are also associated with electrical imbalances in the body.
It’s not surprising then that electromagnetic therapy products are gaining popularity for their ability to enhance natural processes within the body. PEMF stands for pulsed electromagnetic field. Treatments using PEMF technology offer a drug-free, alternative option that helps promote expedited recovery, improves circulation, and enhances cellular function.
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PEMF therapy works by producing an external electromagnetic field that increases blood circulation and facilitates healthy tissue environments. Using specific applied wavelengths and frequencies, it is able to stimulate cells within the muscle tissue thereby improving cellular functionality and performance. Thinking of our cells like individual batteries- when they are fully charged- they are able to perform at their best and when they are depleted, function tends to slow.
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Benefits of this therapy center around its ability to improve local circulation and target damaged cells. With cellular damage, we often see increased inflammation, increased pain, and greater fatigue. Using targeted interventions, PEMF therapy addresses these issues by promoting each of the following:
Our bloodstream is filled with various ions that naturally carry electrical charges. These elements (think hydrogen, potassium, oxygen) all interact without thought to maintain homeostasis within a variety of bodily systems and functions. From regulating blood pressure to facilitating muscle contraction, these electromagnetic exchanges must operate appropriately to keep our system in check.
When things do go awry, PEMF therapy can be used to help correct them. Using an external electromagnetic field, the treatment helps restore and reestablish healthy exchange within the tissues. Common conditions that can benefit from PEMF include:
A growing bank of evidence-based research is backing the use of this therapy for a variety of conditions. With minimal side effects or risks involved, PEMF therapy offers users a safe, effective, and alternative route to medical management.
PEMF therapy can be incorporated into a variety of different devices. Each offers therapeutic benefits for varying patient populations. Let’s review some of the most frequently seen offerings.
 | PureWave PEMF Full-Body PEMI Mat System View Product |
Mat systems are one type of commonly used PEMF device which incorporate internal technology to transfer the PEMF pulse to your body. They come in a variety of sizes and shapes to meet individual needs.
.png&newwidth=365&maxheight=200 "PEMF Therapy InfraMat Pro - TAO-Mat Small 1818 by HealthyLine") | PEMF Therapy InfraMat Pro - TAO-Mat Small 1818 by HealthyLine View Product |
Another PEMF integration uses electromagnetic technology incorporated into heating pads. These pads are generally combined with crushed gemstones to enhance healing and wellness.
 | Sonix Personal Full Body Vibration PEMF System View Product |
A third option utilizes combined PEMF and vibration therapy to approach treatment from a variety of holistic angles. Vibration therapy can also contribute to pain relief, provide additional benefits to exercise regimens and circulatory improvements providing a nice complement to PEMF therapy.
When deciding on the best device for you, consider your location of use, goals of treatment, and budget. Handheld devices offer a great option for those looking for portability and easy application.
Portable PEMF therapy machines consist of an operating system and an applicator you use to transfer the waves to your body. These are typically powerful, but take up more space than handheld devices or mats.
With a market full of PEMF devices, knowing where to begin and what device is right for you can be challenging. Let’s break down some key features to consider:
The first consideration for any PEMF therapy device is size. Identify your intended use, size requirements, and budget constraints. Individual buyers may wish to purchase a handheld device or a mat option which are typically smaller and more portable. Many offer a complementary carrying case for seamless transport and convenience. Conversely, if you’re looking for a device with higher intensity or wider customization options. the larger machine devices are more appropriate and offer broader applications for commercial use.
The second major consideration is intensity. Different devices output different intensities which are used to treat varying conditions. Treatment requires appropriate device use and appropriately applied wavelengths and frequencies to facilitate change. Do your research, speak with your medical team, and identify your condition-specific intensities prior to making any purchasing decisions. Note that weaker intensities sometimes require an increased duration of use and may be less effective for more intense conditions.
Not all devices are FDA-approved. Although not a necessity, some individuals may appreciate the extra stamp of approval before making an investment in a PEMF device.
Finally, review each product for its intended use. Certain PEMF devices are constructed to target specific parts of the body while others offer wider customization options. Do research prior to purchasing to ensure your device meets your condition needs and will help you achieve your treatment goals.
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Pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) therapy offers individuals a unique, non-invasive, complementary therapy that can help restore cellular function, improve blood flow, and facilitate recovery. Using electromagnetic fields, they enhance natural processes and promote the restoration of homeostasis within the body. PEMF devices come in a variety of makes and models each with its own setups, intensities, and settings to promote therapeutic change.
If you’re ready to recharge your body and restore that natural electricity, check out our full listing of PEMF therapy devices. While you’re there, feel free to scan through our curated collection of product reviews, related articles, and buying guides at Rehabmart’s Caregiver University.
Dr. Wood is a licensed naturopathic doctor in Washington D.C. and founder of Visionary Health. A graduate of the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine, Dr. Wood is a professor at John Patrick University in the Integrative and Functional Medicine Department as well as an adjunct professor at the American College of Healthcare Sciences in Holistic Nutrition. He began his career as a specialty physician for two leading supplement US companies, Neuroscience Inc. and Life Extension. Over his fifteen-year career in integrative and holistic medicine, he has worked in diverse capacities including as an educator; writer; medical advisor, consultant and formulator for supplement companies and treatment centers in the US and the EU; public speaker; and clinician. He has long been a practicing advocate of lifestyle medicine, fitness and mind body medicine approaches initially spurred by aging family members not getting help from traditional medicine and is passionate about innovating and bringing natural and integrative medicine to the masses!
