Pulsed Electromagnetic Field therapy

Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy in Mississauga

Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (PEMF) therapy is a non-invasive treatment that applies intermittent, current pulse-generated magnetic field pulses over a short time frame to living tissue, using a pulse repetition frequency. An additional electrical current is subsequently induced in conductive materials, leading to a secondary effect of PEMF in tissue. Due to the short pulse duration and the typically low application pulse repetition frequency, the magnetic field is activated only for a fraction of the therapy time. The therapeutic exposure times may vary from a few minutes up to several hours.

PEMF therapy has been FDA approved for many indications, such as the treatment of osteoarthritis and prevention of bone and cartilage degeneration. It was first used as a treatment in the 1970's. Generally, a low frequency of <300hz and low intensity (<100mT) is used as therapeutic parameters for treatment.

Pulsed Electromagnetic field therapy of the knee

While PEMF therapy is safe for most individuals, your chiropractor will assess your specific situation to determine if cold laser therapy is right for you. It may not be recommended with the following criteria:

Vascular diseases present in or near the treatment area
Not directly over the heart or brain
Local infections in the treatment area
Around malignant or benign tumors
Directly on cartilage surfaces or near the small facet joints of the spinal column
Directly over implanted electronic devices such as pacemakers, analgesic pumps, etc.
In areas, in which mechanical energy in the form of vibrations may lead to tissue damage, e.g. metal implants after a fracture

We are firm believers in research and in validation so that our patients get the best possible treatment for their condition. The research for PEMF therapy is growing every year, and here are some known benefits:

Improvement in pain control in those with acute and chronic pain in a wide variety of musculoskeletal conditions (FULL ARTICLE)
Beneficial effects of PEMF therapy on pain, stiffness, and physical function in patients with Osteoarthritis (FULL ARTICLE)

During PEMF therapy, your affected body part will be exposed. Your doctor will ask you to remove any metallic item from your body (e.g. car keys) and any electrical device (e.g. cell phone) as they can be damaged.

Then, a large wand will be placed near skin and held in place. The magnetic field will be applied to your affected injury site for about 5-10 minutes. PEMF in our clinic is also used in conjunction with cold laser therapy and/or spinal decompression treatment. You should not experience pain during treatment, and no heat is generated by the magnetic fields. If you are experiencing any pain or symptoms, tell your provider, who may need to reposition your body or halt the treatment.