Whether you are an athlete, sportsman, or stay-at-home mom trying to clean your air conditioner before the season, muscle strains and spasms are always peeping from a distance. But, sometimes, these conditions take longer to heal and may even require prolonged treatments.
To avoid the complications involved in surgery, experts developed a noninvasive method called pulsed electromagnetic field therapy to improve such conditions. Since the technique recently gained popularity, a quick overview can help you understand its sum and substance and why it may work well for you.
Understanding Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy
Pulsed electromagnetic field therapy or low-field magnetic stimulation is a magnetotherapy treatment that is widely used to cure musculoskeletal system issues. As the name implies, it uses electromagnetic fields to heal muscular injuries and tissue damage.
Spiraling back to high-school physics, the current passing through a radiant coil or solenoid produces electromagnetic waves. The devices supplying the current vary the frequency of the magnetic field produced.
The idea behind PEMF is based on the fact that human body cells have magnetic energies, and an imbalance in these energies causes muscular strains. Science believes applying a magnetic field to such a tissue will fix things [1].
So, PEMF therapy produces a current around the affected tissue. Charges from the magnetic field move quickly due to the conductance of the human body. The charges’ movement relaxes the underlying tissues to increase the blood flow in the affected area [2].
The technique can significantly help cure muscle depression and spasms by relaxing the irregular contractions between them. However, some studies also show that PEMF can interfere with the electrochemical reactions that send messages to the brain. Therefore, it is vital to consult an expert before finalizing a decision.
Common Conditions When PEMF Can Work
PEMF is a drug-free therapy, and when combined with regular exercise and healthy diets, it can help accelerate the healing from the following situations.
1. Persistent Inflammatory Conditions
Chronic inflammation occurs when your body produces inflammatory cells without any outside disruption [3]. Some of the common signs include unexpected and persistent infections, depression, fatigue, etc. Most individuals try prolonged pain medication to cure these conditions, but it may further lead to issues like stomach problems and internal bleeding.
2. Irregular Sleep Patterns
Several shreds of evidence hint that pulsed electromagnetic field therapy helps with sustained sleep as it deeply relaxes the body. Relaxation leads to deep sleep, which produces two hormones in your body: Melatonin and Human Growth Hormone (HGH), which are chiefly responsible for ensuring healthy sleep and possess anti-aging properties.
3. Peripheral Neuropathy
It is a common condition when the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord cease to function. Usually, it happens when you sit or lay in a position for too long, which causes a lack of blood. Fortunately, PEMF therapies can help regulate normal functioning as they can help improve the symptoms.
4. Stress Management
PEMF not only cures stress but also makes the body less reactive towards stressful conditions. The therapy significantly impacts components primarily responsible for stress in the human body, including the nervous system and endocrine. In 2011, the FDA approved transcranial PEMF for the treatment of severe depression that is resistant to medication. [4]
Benefits of Pulse Electromagnetic Field Therapy
Pulse Electromagnetic Field therapy works well for both acute and chronic conditions. The procedure usually involves a handheld device that targets the affected area, causing a feeling of relaxation.
1. Detoxification of Body
The human body has several mechanisms for excreting substances. However, sometimes, the natural systems need a little boost, and pulsed electromagnetic field therapy provides that. It helps optimize cell functions, which improves organs involved in detoxification, like the liver and kidneys [5]. Improved cell health leads to higher energy levels and a more robust immune system as toxins are experated efficiently.
2. Muscle Recovery
PEMF therapy is valuable for muscle injuries as it promotes cellular repair by boosting natural healing . Moreover, it also ensures quick cell growth by relieving unnecessary stress. The increased blood flow, calcium supply in and out of the cells, and oxygen delivery to affected areas help muscles heal more quickly, alleviate soreness, and boost overall muscle performance.
3. Better Blood Circulation
Pulsed electromagnetic field therapy also promotes blood circulation. It dilates blood vessels, improving the supply of oxygen and nutrients to tissues and organs. Furthermore, it also regulates blood viscosity because of its anticoagulant properties. PEMF therapies induce flexibility in red blood cells, which helps them flow smoothly in capillaries.
4. Improved Heart Function
Another benefit of PEMF is improved heart function. The magnetic fields from the PEMF applicators directly influence the heart’s electromagnetic activities and dilate the blood vessels. It leads to reduced heart workload and ultimately prevents heart-related issues. Furthermore, PEMFs improve cholesterol levels and systolic cardiac function to avoid programmed cell degradations. [5]
5. Bone Strength
Pulsed electromagnetic field therapy is famous for its positive effects on bone strength and healing. It helps stimulate osteoblastogenesis and invigorates bone marrow activities, leading to enhanced bone strength [6]. Due to its peculiar healing properties, PEMFs help treat patients with delayed hairline fracture injuries.
Set Up An Appointment
Pulsed electromagnetic field therapy has been around for decades. However, the technique has recently gained popularity due to its uncomplicated nature. It is a noninvasive method that uses electromagnetic fields to relax damaged and strained tissues to boost recovery and promote physical well-being.
PEMF offers many benefits, but if this is your first time trying it, it is important to get professional help from a reputable source to avoid any complications. Fortunately, Enhancing Massage is at your beck and call. You can easily schedule appointments with the best therapist and begin a journey to better well-being.
FAQs
- Is there scientific evidence about the effectiveness of PEMF?
Research has gathered proof that Pulse Electromagnetic Field Therapy can help stimulate bone growth and reduce muscular pain and post-operative swelling. Moreover, it can also help treat issues unresponsive to meditation and reverse muscle degeneration.
- In which conditions should you avoid PEMF?
Avoid PEMF at all costs if you have a pacemaker, are pregnant, or use an insulin pump. [1]
- How can I get started with massage therapy at Enhancing Massage?
Enhacing Massage is a recommended massage platform for athletes, chronic patients, or anyone suffering from prolonged pain. You can book an appointment by visiting our official website. If you are not sure which treatment will suit you best, you can contact our customer support for general queries.
- Is PEMF therapy safe?
Yes, PEMF has been clinically tested and proven safe as a therapy method by the FDA. It is an authentic, non-invasive method that can help you nurture a healthi er lifestyle. [8] .
- What types of massages does Enhancing Massage offer?
Experts at Enhancing Massage specialize in medical, deep tissue, and sports massage. But they are also well-learned about PEMF and cupping therapies.
References:
[2] https://recover.centre.uq.edu.au/
[5] https://www.recoverysystemssport.com
[6] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/
