PEMF FAQs

PEMF therapy is a non-invasive, medication-free treatment for various conditions, such as chronic pain, anxiety, depression, and insomnia. PEMF mats are the most common home-use form of PEMF therapy.

In this article, we will address some frequently asked questions regarding PEMF therapy, such as the availability of high-dose PEMF devices, the sensation of PEMF, insurance coverage for PEMF, therapy costs, devices for home use, and the duration of PEMF therapy to take effect.

 

Is There a Higher Dose PEMF Mat?

PEMF mat manufacturers offer a range of strengths, and they design some mats to provide higher doses of PEMF therapy than others. They measure the strength of a PEMF mat in Gauss, a unit of magnetic flux density.

Currently, most PEMF mats available on the market provide a strength between 1000 and 5000 Gauss. Nevertheless, some manufacturers create mats to deliver a more potent PEMF therapy, with strengths reaching up to 10,000 Gauss or more.

It is important to note that higher doses do not always mean better when it comes to PEMF therapy. Although PEMF devices with higher strengths are more effective for specific conditions, they may also trigger side effects in some individuals.

It is essential to consult a healthcare provider beforehand to ensure the safety and appropriateness of using a high-dose PEMF mat.

 

What Does PEMF Feel Like?

PEMF therapy typically poses no risk. Mild side effects, such as a sensation of heat, pins, and tingling during treatment, may occur for some patients (1, 2, and 3). Additionally, some individuals may experience a slight pulsing or vibrating sensation. The experience varies depending on the strength and frequency of the electromagnetic waves used and the individual’s sensitivity to electromagnetic fields.

It is crucial to note that not all individuals will perceive a noticeable sensation during PEMF therapy. The lack of sensation does not necessarily indicate that the treatment is ineffective.

 

Is PEMF Covered by Insurance?

PEMF therapy is not typically covered by insurance, as it is considered an alternative or complementary therapy rather than a conventional medical treatment. Yet, some healthcare providers may incorporate PEMF therapy into a treatment plan, and insurance may cover the cost of the visit if it is medically necessary.

Checking with your insurance provider is essential to confirm if they cover PEMF therapy and the conditions for reimbursement.

 

 

How Much Does PEMF Therapy Cost?

The price of PEMF therapy varies based on factors such as the provider, device type, and session duration. Typically, a single session of PEMF therapy costs between $50 and $200, and some providers offer package deals or discounts for multiple sessions.

The cost of PEMF mats for home use also varies, with some mats priced at several hundred dollars while others are at thousands of dollars. Researching and comparing various options before buying a PEMF mat for home use is crucial to ensure you acquire a high-quality product at a reasonable price.

 

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What Are the Available PEMF Devices for Home Use?

Several PEMF devices, including mats, pads, and handheld devices, are available for home use. PEMF mats are the most popular home-use devices as they are easy to use, cover a larger surface area, and can be used while lying down.

These mats come in various sizes and strengths, and some of them offer additional features like heat therapy.

PEMF pads are smaller and more portable than mats, making them an excellent option for individuals who travel frequently or want to target specific body areas. These pads can be used on the neck, shoulders, back, and other body parts that require pain relief.

Handheld PEMF devices are small and portable, perfect for targeted therapy on specific body parts. These devices effectively treat pain, inflammation, and other localized conditions.

When purchasing a PEMF device for home use, it is crucial to consider factors like the device’s strength, frequency range, size, and portability. Also, get a device from a reputable manufacturer to ensure it meets safety standards.

 

How Long Does It Take PEMF Therapy To Work?

The strength and frequency of the electromagnetic waves used and the condition you are treating can affect the duration it takes for PEMF therapy to take effect. Some individuals may experience immediate relief from symptoms, while others may require several sessions before noticing a difference.

Generally, most individuals who use PEMF therapy report improvements in their symptoms within a few weeks of starting treatment. However, it is important to note that the effects of PEMF therapy can be cumulative, and some individuals may continue to see improvements over time with regular treatment.

Several studies show that the duration of PEMF therapy to take effect can differ depending on the condition and treatment frequency. For instance, in a study involving elderly individuals with osteoarthritis-related pain, stiffness, and physical function, significant improvements were observed after six weeks of PEMF therapy, consisting of three 30-minute sessions per week (4).

Another study on osteopenia or osteoporosis treatment in men found that applying PEMF to the whole body three times per week for 12 weeks, combined with an exercise protocol, gave positive result that lasted up to six months, indicating the effectiveness of long-term treatment (5).

It is also important to note that PEMF therapy should not be used as a substitute for conventional medical treatment. Patients should always consult a healthcare provider before starting PEMF therapy or any other new form of treatment.

 

References:

1. Roberti, Roberta, et al. “High-Intensity, Low-Frequency Pulsed Electromagnetic Field as an Odd Treatment in a Patient with Mixed Foot Ulcer: A Case Report.” MDPI, Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute, 20 Jan. 2022, https://www.mdpi.com/2571-841X/5/1/3.
2. Karakaş, Merve, and Haydar Gök. “Effectiveness of Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy on Pain, Functional Status, and Quality of Life in Patients with Chronic Non-Specific Neck Pain: A Prospective, Randomized-Controlled Study.” Turkish Journal of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 18 May 2020, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7401674/.
3. Clinical Study Protocol – Clinicaltrials.gov. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ProvidedDocs/93/NCT03077893/Prot_SAP_000.pdf.
4. Iannitti, Tommaso, et al. “Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy for Management of Osteoarthritis-Related Pain, Stiffness and Physical Function: Clinical Experience in the Elderly.” Clinical Interventions in Aging, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 2013, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3791961/.
5. Ebid, Anwar, et al. “Long-Term Effect of Full-Body Pulsed Electromagnetic Field and Exercise Protocol in the Treatment of Men with Osteopenia or Osteoporosis: A Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trial.” F1000Research, F1000 Research Limited, 29 Nov. 2021, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8637238/.