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A cutting-edge treatment that uses low-frequency electromagnetic fields to stimulate healing, PEMF (Pulsed Electromagnetic Field) therapy is just beginning to make waves in the wellness community as another modality of achieving full-body health. While it has been widely studied for its ability to reduce chronic pain and inflammation, this non-invasive therapy is now also being used to improve sleep quality, reduce stress, and alleviate the symptoms of depression, among other conditions. There’s a lot left to be explored in the world of PEMF, but what we do know is that it is on the rise in many households as people discover the potential benefits of this holistic treatment. Explore the benefits of PEMF therapy for a comprehensive approach to well-being.
History of PEMF
While the modern version of PEMF is relatively new, the use of magnets for therapeutic purposes is far older than most realize. Ancient civilizations, including China, Egypt, and Greece have all been recorded as using magnetic energy to treat health conditions. When renowned scientist Nikola Tesla published his findings about the use of electromagnetic fields to heal patients in 1898, it was built on a line of inquiry that had been around for millennia.
After Tesla’s findings, many great researchers contributed their ideas to the cause, including Alexander Gurvich, Georges Lakhovsky, Royal Raymond Rife, Antoine Priore, Robert Becker, and Abraham Liboff. Modern-day PEMF technology came into fruition in the 1970s when Drs. Andrew Bassett and Arthur Pilla invented a bone growth simulator that healed a fracture using electromagnetism. Since then, PEMF has been used in many medical treatments for pain management and wound healing. It is also starting to become more popular at home with the invention of portable mats and panels.
How Does PEMF Work?
PEMF technology works by sending magnetic currents into the body using either copper coils or an electromagnet, typically contained within a mat that you lie on. The waves of magnetic energy are capable of stimulating the cells in different ways. Depending on the type of treatment and device you are working with, you may be able to modify the strength of the electromagnetic pulses to achieve different results. For example, a low frequency pulse can make you feel more relaxed while a higher frequency can boost your energy. Here are some of the ways that PEMF works on a cellular level to improve your overall health.
ATP Production
ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate) is commonly referred to as the energy currency of cells. When you send electromagnetic energy into the body using a PEMF device, it increases ATP, which in turn fuels vital processes in the body. More ATP leads to quicker healing and a reduction in pain and inflammation.
Ion Movement
The electromagnetic fields generated by PEMF can influence the movement of ions in and out of cells. This movement of ions affects the way that cells communicate with each other, leading to positive changes in the body’s response to injury and stress.
Production of Nitric Oxide
Additionally, PEMF can stimulate the production of nitric oxide, a molecule that improves blood flow. By boosting circulation, nitric oxide helps deliver oxygen and nutrients more efficiently throughout the body.
Potential Health Benefits of PEMF
While there is ongoing research being conducted to discover all the upsides of using PEMF technology, it is touted for many potential benefits. Here are some of the most popular reasons why people turn to PEMF as an alternative treatment.
- Reduce chronic pain and inflammation
- Improve circulation
- Promote wound healing
- Improve bone density
- Improve sleep quality
- Reduce stress and anxiety
PEMF Treatment Options
You can book a PEMF treatment with a doctor or therapist, or you can try an at-home PEMF device. Here are two of our favorite brands that have created easy-to-use at-home PEMF devices.
- HigherDOSE: This company specializes in wellness tech products, including innovative PEMF mats. Their Infrared PEMF Mat HigherDOSE Infrared PEMF Mat – RECHARGE, REGROUND and REBALANCE uses PEMF, infrared therapy, and healing crystals to promote relaxation and relieve common issues like chronic lower back pain. The mats also come in a portable size, called the Infrared PEMF Go Mat HigherDOSE Infrared PEMF Go Mat – Lightweight and Portable
- HealthyLine: HealthyLine offers a wide range of PEMF mats that combine different therapies for maximum healing potential. For example, their Platinum Mat uses far-infrared, negative ion, PEMF, and photon light therapy in combination with gemstones to provide comprehensive treatment. Their mats also range in size, from a small panel to a full-body floor mat so that you can use them whenever and wherever you need a boost.
PEMF Cost
The cost of PEMF treatments will vary based on where and how you are having the treatment administered. In a clinic, you’ll find that a thirty-minute session typically ranges between $30-60. As it’s recommended that you go frequently to see a significant improvement in your health, attending many sessions will add up quickly. Instead, you could opt for an at-home mat, which will likely range from around $350 to several thousand dollars. While in-clinic treatments tend to be stronger, there is something to be said for being able to have a PEMF treatment whenever you want at home.
Who is PEMF Good For?
PEMF therapy can be used by young and old. It is non-invasive and painless and has been shown to be safe for most people, excluding those with pacemakers or electrical implants. Use of PEMF therapy is also not recommended if you are pregnant. If you’re considering trying PEMF, it is of course recommended that you speak to your healthcare professional first regardless of your situation.
A promising alternative treatment for knee, back, and neck pain, as well as a host of other health conditions, PEMF is certainly on our radar. With its non-invasive and safe nature, it’s growing in popularity as an alternative choice to medications and surgical treatments for chronic pain. While all the benefits are still being researched, the future of PEMF therapy looks bright, and it is certainly worth considering for anyone looking to improve their well-being.
