How PEMF Works: Unlocking the Science
The Science Behind PEMF Therapy
Research suggests that magnetic fields can help our cells work better. A study published in 2019 in The FASEB Journal found that PEMF Therapy can boost cell health through a process called "magnetic mitohormesis."
Cells as Batteries
Think of our cells like tiny batteries. They produce energy and stay balanced through chemical reactions and ion movement. When PEMF Therapy is applied, these processes become more efficient, improving how cells perform.
Key Findings from the Study
The study looked into how PEMF affects muscle cells, but it showed potential benefits for many cell types. It mainly focused on the TRPC1 protein, an ion channel in cell membranes. PEMF helps arrange TRPC1 to improve calcium ion (Ca2+) flow into the cell.
In addition, PEMF Therapy:
1. Enhances mitochondria, leading them to respire more.
2. Aids in the production of another protein, calcineurin, which supports the immune system.
3. Stimulates epigenetic cascades that promote the production of more mitochondria.
Why Is This Important?
With more mitochondria available and each respiring more, more ATP is generated, providing energy for cells to perform their functions effectively. Given that TRPC1 and other voltage-gated calcium channels exist in many types of cells, the central impact of PEMF lies in moving calcium ions and stimulating mitochondrial respiration and reproduction, leading to increased energy.
Calcium ions are vital for:
1. Producing energy in mitochondria (the cell’s powerhouses).
2. Starting repair and recovery processes.
3. Enhancing cellular communication for better overall function.
By enhancing these processes, PEMF Therapy can rejuvenate your body from the inside out, making it a great tool for pain relief, recovery, and restoring energy.
PEMF Therapy Research
The use of Pulsed Electromagnetic Fields (PEMF) for wellness dates back to the 19th century, and the scientific studies regarding the benefits and applications of PEMF are extensive, to say the least. While this compilation is merely a subset of the extensive research regarding PEMF, it is a great starting point for learning more about the science that backs this incredible technology. Lets discover the journey through early research around why and how PEMF works and further into the general wellness benefits that PEMF has been shown to provide - both for people and animals.
Early Discoveries & Publications
The Fields of Life
Harold Saxton Burr, Professor of Anatomy at Yale University, Studied the predictive electromagnetic fields produced by the bodies of humans and animals and detailed his findings in publications such as The Fields of Life, The Electric Patterns of Life, and Blueprint for Immortality.
Energy Medicine
In 2001, Professor James L. Oschman compiled the extensive research-based evidence around energy as a driver of normal health and wellbeing. His book Energy Medicine: The Scientific Basis makes the case for energy-based modalities as fundamental components of health & wellness regimens.
Healing is Voltage
In 2010, world-renowned physician, international author, and integrative health practitioner Jerry Tennant, MD released the first edition of his book Healing is Voltage in which he explored the relationship between voltage across cell membranes and wellness.
“ With enough voltage and raw materials, the body can heal almost anything.” - Dr. Jerry Tennant
Cells are Like Batteries: Understanding and Engineering
Cell Biology
A study published in the Journal of the Royal Society in 2020 by researchers from the University of Warwick's Bio-Electrical Engineering Innovation Hub discussed the potential benefits of viewing cells through a bioelectrical lens. This perspective can improve our predictions and control over cellular behavior. In both electrochemical cells (like batteries) and biological cells, charged molecules and ions move across membranes, sparking chemical reactions. Just as low-charge batteries underperform, biological cells with insufficient charge can also malfunction. However, like rechargeable batteries used in phones, laptops, and cars, biological cells can be "recharged" to operate efficiently. It's also important to note that as rechargeable batteries age, they hold charges less effectively. Similarly, the effectiveness or duration of recharging biological cells may differ between individuals or cell types. "The bioelectrical view of cell behavior draws an analogy between biological cells and batteries, both of which rely on redox reactions and ion movements."
Amplified Performance: How PEMF Boosts Energy, Endurance, and Performance
A study conducted in 2019 by Old Dominion University’s Frank Reidy Research Center for Bioelectrics explored how Pulse PEMF technology affects blood flow in rats. The findings were impressive: after undergoing PEMF sessions, the rats experienced an average increase in blood flow of about 20% compared to those that did not receive PEMF treatment. Moreover, blood flow was significantly higher after 60 minutes of PEMF exposure compared to just 15 minutes. The researchers concluded that PEMF sessions enhance blood flow, improve oxygen consumption, and increase ATP production by aiding electron transport. As a result, these biological enhancements may boost energy potential in skeletal muscle cells. "PEMF increases blood flow to skeletal muscle without relying on heat. Similar to the benefits seen during exercise, this increased blood flow enhances nutrient delivery and facilitates gas exchange, benefiting both active and injured tissues." This significant study underscores the effectiveness of Pulse PEMF technology in improving physical performance and recovery.
Natural Recovery
EFFECTS OF PULSED ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELD THERAPY ON DELAYED-ONSET MUSCLE SORENESS IN BICEPS BRACHII. (Physical Therapy in Sport, 2015)
The official journal of the Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Sports and Exercise Medicine published a study on PEMF’s impact on delayed-onset muscle soreness (DOMS) in biceps brachii on 30 healthy human subjects. Their objective was to compare the effects of PEMF with placebo treatment on variables in elbow flexors following an exercise regimen that would induce muscle soreness.
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“Overall, the application of the PEMF was found to be effective in reducing the physiological deficits associated with DOMS [delayed onset muscle soreness], including improved recovery of perceived muscle soreness, increased median frequency (MDF), and enhanced electromechanical delay (EMD) during isometric contraction.”
Relaxation
COMPARISON OF THE EFFECTS OF MANUAL ACUPUNCTURE, LASER ACUPUNCTURE, AND ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELD STIMULATION AT ACUPUNCTURE POINT BL15 ON HEART RATE VARIABILITY. (Journal of Acupuncture and Meridian Studies, 2016)
• In this study, researchers focused on measuring heart rate variability (HRV), a key physiological metric for well-being.
• “An optimal level of HRV within an organism reflects healthy function and an inherent self-regulatory capacity, adaptability, and resilience.” They found that PEMF stimulation was identical to that of manual acupuncture in increasing HRV and activated the parasympathetic nervous system, typically responsible for rest and digestion.
“In conclusion, we found that manual acupuncture and electromagnetic field stimulation [2 Hz and 460 gauss] at BL15 caused identical patterns for the activation of the parasympathetic nervous system.”
Enhanced Energy
EFFECTS OF A PULSED ELECTROMAGNETIC THERAPY ON MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS FATIGUE AND QUALITY OF LIFE: A DOUBLE-BLIND, PLACEBO CONTROLLED TRIAL. (Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine, 2003)
In this study, scientists from Washington, Virginia, and New Jersey conducted experiments on effects of PEMF on subjects with multiple sclerosis. In this multi-site, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, researchers noticed improvements in fatigue and overall quality of life in subjects who were placed on the active PEMF device. While the researchers were adamant that their study should be replicated and expanded upon, they noted the human body as being highly responsive to PEMF therapy.
“Specifically, subjects experienced significantly less fatigue during the four weeks they wore the active [PEMF] device than they did while wearing the placebo device.”
Natural Healing
EFFECTS OF PULSED ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELDS (PEMF) ON MOUSE BONE
MARROW-DERIVED MACROPHAGES
(Old Dominion University, Frank Reidy Research Center for Bioelectrics, 2019)
In 2019, ODU’s Center for Bioelectrics studied the effects of Pulse PEMF technology on mouse bone marrow-derived macrophages (specialized cells involved in the detection, phagocytosis and destruction of bacteria and other harmful organisms). A number of results were observed including the up regulation of anti-inflammatory cytokines (intercellular signalling molecules involved in immunity, inflammation and hematopoiesis), downregulation of inflammatory cytokines, and enhancement of macrophages.
“PEMF effects on macrophages* can enhance the body’s curative mechanisms to possibly clear infections and tissue damage, dissipate inflammation, and promote healing.”
This study was performed on Pulse PEMF technology!
Joint & Cartilage Function
EFFECTS OF PULSED ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELD THERAPY AT DIFFERENT FREQUENCIES AND DURATIONS ON ROTATOR CUFF TENDON-TO-BONE HEALING IN A RAT MODEL. (Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery, 2018)
In this study, 210 rat subjects underwent acute bilateral supraspinatus injury and repair followed by pulsed electromagnetic field stimulation for 1, 3, or 6 hours daily. Astoundingly, regardless of frequency or duration, improvements were seen in different mechanical properties on virtually all subjects that were given PEMF therapy.
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“Based on the results of this study, we speculate that PEMF treatment may increase tendon cell metabolism, which in turn increases both collagen production and matrix remodeling.”
Coupling of Pulsed Electromagnetic Fields (PEMF) Therapy to Molecular Grounds of the Cell
(American Journal of Translational Research, 2018)
This comprehensive scientific review served 4 goals: a) investigate whether there were truly positive clinical outcomes after PEMF therapy; b) screen experimental studies dealing with PEMF and musculoskeletal cells and tissue, especially regarding interleukins and TNF-a c) search for an electromagnetic intrinsic counterpart and trigger for PEMF in cells and tissues and d) look for causal molecular and cellular mechanisms of possible PEMF actions. Among these results:
“[PEMF] is beneficial for both passive physical movement and for physical training performed by the patient.”
“PEMF can lead to chondroprotective effects on joint cartilage in animal models.”
“Proliferation, differentiation and synthesis of cartilage matrix proteins are enhanced by PEMF.”
The use of electromagnetic fields for wellness dates back to the 19th century, and the scientific studies regarding the benefits and applications of PEMF are extensive. While this page is by no means a comprehensive list of research articles, it does contain the studies most often referenced in Pulse PEMF print and digital resources.
Research & Citations
Tucker J. Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy: Biohacking Part III. American Chiropractor, (2019, November 11), 41, 44-45. "When the energy fields pass seamlessly into the cells of the area, the cells absorb that energy. In this way, the electromagnetic fields exercise and energize those cells. PEMF practitioners can direct electromagnetic fields towards 'spot' areas of a patient's body that have injuries or other damage, or they can provide 'broad' area treatment to improve self-reported psychometric measures of sleep, mood, and quality of life (life satisfaction) without adverse effects. That's why PEMF sessions are often called 'cellular exercise' and are popular among biohackers."
https://theamericanchiropractor.com/article/2019/11/01/pulsed-electro-magnetic-field-therapy-pemf
Jeon HS, Kang SY, Park JH, Lee HS. Effects of pulsed electromagnetic field therapy on delayed-onset muscle soreness in biceps brachii. Phys Ther Sport. 2015;16(1):34-39. doi:10.1016/j.ptsp.2014.02.006 "Overall, the application of the PEMF was found to be effective in reducing the physiological deficits associated with DOMS [delayed onset muscle soreness], including improved recovery of perceived muscle soreness, MDF, and EMD during isometric contraction."
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24906295/
Lee NR, Kim SB, Heo H, Lee YH. Comparison of the Effects of Manual Acupuncture, Laser Acupuncture, and Electromagnetic Field Stimulation at Acupuncture Point BL15 on Heart Rate Variability. J Acupunct Meridian Stud. 2016;9(5):257-263. doi:10.1016/j.jams.2016.06.002 "In conclusion, we found that manual acupuncture and electromagnetic field stimulation at BL15 using manual acupuncture and a PEMF (2 Hz and 460 gauss) caused identical patterns for the activation of the parasympathetic nervous system.*"
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27776764/
Noyes FR, Barber-Westin SD. (2017). Diagnosis and Treatment of Complex Regional Pain Syndrome. Noyes' Knee Disorders: Surgery, Rehabilitation, Clinical Outcomes, 1122-1160. doi:10.1016/b978-0-323-32903-3.00040-8 "The parasympathetic nervous system is responsible for the body's rest and digestion response when the body is relaxed, resting, or feeding. It basically undoes the work of sympathetic division after a stressful situation. The parasympathetic nervous system decreases respiration and heart rate and increases digestion."
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/B9780323329033000408
Lappin MS, Lawrie FW, Richards TL, Kramer ED. Effects of a pulsed electromagnetic therapy on multiple sclerosis fatigue and quality of life: a double-blind, placebo controlled trial. Altern Ther Health Med. 2003;9(4):38-48. "Specifically, subjects experienced significantly less fatigue during the four weeks they wore the active [PEMF] device than they did while wearing the placebo device."
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12868251/
Tucker J. Treating Chronic Pain with Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Treatment (PEMF). 11 Apr. 2019, www.chiroeco.com/pemf-chronic-pain/.
"Trigger points are like inflammation in that they are the body’s natural response to injury and illnesses. By combining the benefits of stretch poses and PEMF, patients are able to signal their brains that they can move further, and possibly regulate some inflammation or cell metabolism to diminish trigger points."
https://www.chiroeco.com/pemf-chronic-pain/
Iwasa K, Reddi AH. Pulsed Electromagnetic Fields and Tissue Engineering of the Joints. Tissue Eng Part B Rev. 2018;24(2):144-154. doi:10.1089/ten.TEB.2017.0294 "Positive effects of PEMF on chondrocytes and cartilage were also demonstrated in in vivo studies." https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5905856/#:~:text=2).,and%20functions%20of%20OA%20knees
Funk RH. (2018, May 15). Coupling of pulsed electromagnetic fields (PEMF) therapy to molecular grounds of the cell. "Furthermore, PEMF can lead to chondroprotective effects on joint cartilage in animal models"
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5992548/
Gaynor JS, Hagberg S, Gurfein BT. Veterinary applications of pulsed electromagnetic field therapy.
Res Vet Sci. 2018;119:1-8. doi:10.1016/j.rvsc.2018.05.005 "The data reviewed underscore the usefulness of PEMF treatment as a safe, non-invasive treatment modality that has the potential to become an important stand-alone or adjunctive treatment modality in veterinary care." https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29775839/
Huegel J, Choi DS, Nuss CA, Minnig MCC, Tucker JJ, Kuntz AF, Waldorff EI, Zhang N, Ryaby JT, Soslowsky LJ. Effects of pulsed electromagnetic field therapy at different frequencies and durations on rotator cuff tendon-to-bone healing in a rat model. J Shoulder Elbow Surg. 2018 Mar;27(3):553-560. doi: 10.1016/j.jse.2017.09.024. Epub 2017 Nov 22. PMID: 29174271; PMCID: PMC5835831. “Based on the results of this study, we speculate that PEMF treatment may increase tendon cell metabolism, which in turn increases both collagen production and matrix remodeling.” https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5835831/
Tesla N (1999) High frequency oscillators for electro-therapeutic and other purposes. Proceedings of the IEEE 87:1282. doi: 10.1109/jproc.1999.771079 “One of the early observed and remarkable features of the high frequency currents, and one which was chiefly of interest to the physician, was their apparent harmlessness which made it possible to pass relatively great amounts of electrical energy through the body of a person without causing pain or serious discomfort.” “This mode of applying high frequency currents in medical treatment appears to me to offer the greatest possibilities at the hands of the physician.”
https://teslauniverse.com/nikola-tesla/articles/high-frequency-oscillators-electro-therapeutic-and-other-purposes
Costa, G et al. “Changes in nutrient absorption in children and adolescents caused by fructans, especially fructooligosaccharides and inulin.” Archives de pediatrie : organe officiel de la Societe francaise de pediatrie vol. 27,3 (2020): 166-169. doi:10.1016/j.arcped.2020.01.004 “Fructans, such as inulin and fructooligosaccharides (FOS), have several effects on human health owing to their prebiotic character, including anti-microbial and anti-cancer effects, and to their influence on the absorption of minerals… Some studies reported that FOS appears to increase calcium uptake in the gut and stimulates the growth of bifidobacterium in the colon, reducing iron intake by enteric pathogens, and increasing the absorption of these minerals.”
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32127241/
Kudryasheva, N.S., Tarasova, A.S. Pollutant toxicity and detoxification by humic substances: mechanisms and quantitative assessment via luminescent biomonitoring. Environ Sci Pollut Res 22, 155–167 (2015).
https://doi.org/10.1007/s11356-014-3459-6
“
The detoxifying effects of HS were shown to be complex and regarded as 'external' (binding and redox processes in solutions outside the organisms) and/or 'internal' organismal processes. The paper demonstrates that the HS can stimulate a protective response of bacterial cells as a result of (1) changes of rates of biochemical reactions and (2) stabilization of mucous layers outside the cell walls.”
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25146119/