A doctor can help you decide which device is best for treating your condition. In addition, TENS devices work through adhesives you attach to your body instead of a mat. The primary difference is that PEMF uses electromagnetic energy, while TENS uses electrical pulses. These products are available at clinics, by prescription, or over the counter. Like PEMF therapy, TENS is primarily used to decrease pain related to injuries or chronic conditions. TENS works by sending small amounts of electrical pulses through electrodes connected to adhesives that you place on specific parts of your body. Still, at-home PEMF therapy may not be appropriate - or affordable - for everyone.Ī potential alternative to PEMF therapy is a transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) device. low versus high frequency and intensity settingsĬomplementary therapies such as PEMF devices may decrease the dependence or misuse of oral pain medications.
whether it’s designed for home use or if an in-office appointment with a healthcare professional is needed.
Plus, the device can be portable - as long as you don’t opt for a full-body mat.īefore investing in an at-home PEMF device, it’s important to consider what you’re using the device for and whether your doctor supports home use.Īlso, keep in mind that you shouldn’t purchase and use PEMF devices to self-treat any condition without first consulting a healthcare professional.Ĭonsider the following criteria when searching for the right PEMF device:
On the plus side, having a device at home helps you fit in treatment according to your schedule. In addition, if undergoing at-home treatment, there’s no medical supervision during your sessions. Note that home-use devices may not be as strong as their professional counterparts. In some cases, you may be able to purchase one without a prescription. They may be used by primary care doctors, orthopedic surgeons, physical therapists, and chiropractors.ĭepending on the condition being treated, a doctor may also prescribe a PEMF device for at-home use. Traditional PEMF devices often come as full-body mats you lie down on during a therapy session. For example, this might be caused by using the device too often or using it at too high of an intensity.Īs such, a healthcare professional will likely recommend shorter, more frequent, and low intensity sessions to start. It’s important to know that in some cases, PEMF therapy could worsen pain rather than improve it. which electromagnetic frequencies and strengths to use, such as low or high intensity.However, to date, these benefits aren’t backed by research.ĭepending on your condition, a doctor will make specific recommendations for using PEMF therapy, including:
Manufacturers behind various PEMF devices also advertise benefits such as improved mood, better sleep, and anti-aging effects. In addition, researchers are looking at PEMF as a possible treatment option for bladder and pelvic pain. It also has potential as a way to improve mobility and pain related to surgeries. PEMF may also be used to reduce pain related to cancer treatments and fatigue related to multiple sclerosis. Primarily, PEMF therapy has been used in the treatment of acute pain from injuries, osteoarthritis, and chronic low back pain. Who is a good candidate for PEMF therapy?