More than one billion people worldwide have musculoskeletal disorders, low back pain being the most common. If you have chronic pain in your back or any other body part, you may be looking to learn about non-drug treatment options. Pulsed electromagnetic field therapy (PEMF) is a non-drug therapy used to treat acute and chronic pain by reducing inflammation. If you’ve previously undergone PEMF therapy Brooklyn and are looking and are considering getting an at-home device to achieve some of the benefits, it is vital to know how the therapy works and how to choose the right device for you.

How does PEMF therapy work?

Pulsed electromagnetic field therapy directs a small amount of energy toward a particular body part through a specialized magnetic device. This therapy improves circulation and cellular function by increasing your body’s ability to release nitric oxide – a common healing mechanism following injuries, which helps reduce inflammation.

Although electromagnetic therapies are a promising pain management method, it is unclear whether they lead to long-term improvements. As such, healthcare providers consider PEMF therapy a complement to other treatment measures rather than a standalone treatment option.

Who is a good candidate for PEMF therapy?

PEMF has been primarily used to treat pain caused by osteoarthritis and injuries. The therapy may also minimize discomfort related to cancer treatments and fatigue linked to multiple sclerosis. PEMF therapy also has the potential to improve mobility and reduce pain associated with surgeries. It is also a possible treatment option for pelvic and bladder pain.

Manufacturers behind different PEMF devices also advertise benefits like better sleep, improved mood, and anti-aging effects, but the said benefits are not backed by research.

A doctor’s specific recommendations for using PEMF therapy will depend on your condition. For example, they determine the electromagnetic frequencies and strength to use, such as low or high intensity. Your doctor also advises on the duration of each therapy and how often to use the device. It is vital to follow the guidelines since PEMF therapy can worsen pain rather than improve it. For example, using the device too often or at high intensity can exacerbate the pain. For this reason, your healthcare professional will likely suggest shorter, more frequent, and low-intensity sessions to start.

Choosing the right PEMF device

Before buying an at-home PEMF device, consult a healthcare professional; you shouldn’t use the devices to self-treat. Knowing what you are using the device for and whether it is safe for home use is vital. When searching for the right PEMF device, you want to consider various factors, including whether it is portable.

If you want to purchase home-use devices, it is best to know that they may be weaker than their professional counterparts. Also, undergoing treatment at home means you have no medical supervision during your sessions. But on the plus side, home devices allow you to plan your therapy sessions according to your schedule. You can also move the device from one place to another if it’s not a full-body mat.

If you have chronic pain, consult your provider at Healthy Therapeutics Medical Practice, PLLC, to know how you can benefit from PEMF therapy.