Pulsed Electro-Magnetic Field Overview
Pulsed Electro-Magnetic Field (PEMF) therapy is a medical treatment that utilizes electromagnetic fields to stimulate cellular metabolism and promote healthy cell reproduction. This therapy has been shown to reduce pain and swelling, increase blood circulation, and stimulate the immune and endocrine systems. PEMF was initially approved by the FDA for use in stimulating bone growth, but it has also been used to help heal skin ulcers, surgical wounds, and burns.
In the context of brain injuries, PEMF therapy has been shown to boost neuronal cell growth and reduce the brain’s post-traumatic inflammatory response. The therapy works by directing electromagnetic waves at the area of the body to be treated. It is important to note that while this therapy has been shown to be effective in treating a variety of conditions, it should only be used under the guidance and supervision of a qualified healthcare provider.
PEMF for Brain Injury & Concussions
PEMF Increases New Neuronal Growth by 2.5 to 4 Times
Pulsed electro-magnetic field (PEMF) therapy is a potential treatment for traumatic brain injuries and concussions. NASA scientists have found that PEMF increases the growth rate of cells exposed to pulsed electromagnetic waves by 2.5 to 4 times, compared to cells that have not been exposed. This means that PEMF therapy may help with the regeneration of brain cells after an injury.
PEMF May Limit Post-Traumatic Inflammation
In addition to promoting neuronal growth, PEMF therapy may also limit the brain’s post-traumatic inflammation response. In a study of brain-injured rats treated with PEMF, scientists found reductions of up to 90 percent in a pro-inflammatory protein called interleukin-1beta. High levels of this protein in the brain have been linked to bad outcomes and high intracranial pressure in humans. Injecting interleukin-1beta in animal studies has resulted in cell death, fluid buildup, swelling, and breakdown of the blood-brain barrier.
PEMF Stimulates Vasomotion Which Improves Oxygen Delivery, Nutrient Utilization, Nitric Oxide, and ATP Production
In addition to promoting neuronal growth, PEMF therapy may also limit the brain’s post-traumatic inflammation response. In a study of brain-injured rats treated with PEMF, scientists found reductions of up to 90 percent in a pro-inflammatory protein called interleukin-1beta. High levels of this protein in the brain have been linked to bad outcomes and high intracranial pressure in humans. Injecting interleukin-1beta in animal studies has resulted in cell death, fluid buildup, swelling, and breakdown of the blood-brain barrier.
Pulsed Electro-Magnetic Fields Risks While Pregnant
Caution: Potential side effects of Pulsed Electro-Magnetic Field therapy include a temporary drop in blood pressure, light headedness or fainting. PEMF may interfere with battery-powered medical device implants and may aggravate some pre-existing medical conditions. As always, consult with a doctor before engaging in new therapeutic practices.
The Concussion Repair Manual – p77-82
Dr. Dan Engle 2017
“If you are pregnant or have a history of seizures, you should consult your doctor before trying PEMF therapy. Side effects associated with PEMF therapy may include a temporary decrease in blood pressure, which can cause lightheadedness or fainting. Also, if you have an implanted pacemaker, insulin pump, or other battery-powered medical device, strong electromagnetic pulses may interfere with their operation. In part, other potential health risks depend on how often you undergo PEMF therapy and which portions of your body make contact with the PEMF system. (There are small PEMF units designed for use on very localized areas and larger systems to target your whole body. See “Availability and Cost” section for details.) As an example, let’s say you have a pre-existing, overactive thyroid. Frequent exposure to electromagnetic fields at high intensities might aggravate that condition. Women who are on their periods and have PEMF therapy targeted at their pelvic regions may temporarily experience heavier menstrual flows. And people undergoing PEMF treatment who have active bleeding—from hemorrhoids or a stomach ulcer, for instance—may have trouble clotting.” – Dr. Dan Engle, The Concussion Repair Manual page 82.
