Pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) therapy has become an incredibly versatile technology over the years. This technology has been seen to provide a wide range of benefits to both animals and humans. 

Today, it is widely used to improve blood circulation and physical fitness. It also helps to reduce inflammation, improve sleep, and even heal certain types of fractures. The interesting fact about this revolutionary science is that it has a long and rich history that can be traced back to the mid-1800s.

PEMF therapy is a type of magnetic therapy that has been used for more than 100 years. Ancient physicians used magnetic therapy to treat everything from minor joint pain to moodiness to digestive disorders.

In the late 1800s, scientist Nikola Tesla discovered that applying electric fields to the human body might have healing benefits. Later, in the 1960s, when technological advances became more efficient and effective, it was demonstrated that electromagnetic fields could be used to enhance bone healing.

In the 1970s, NASA started using PEMF to aid in the health and healing of astronauts exposed to space radiation. 

Later in 1979, the FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration) approved the use of PEMF therapy for nonunion fractures. Over time, this technology became more available to the public. It was first used by athletes to reduce muscle pain and heal injuries.

PEMF has now been widely studied and found to be a successful treatment for a wide range of diseases, ranging from chronic pain to depression. The therapy has various beneficial effects on people's health. Some of these include:

• Decreased stress level

• Increased blood oxygenation

• Enhanced bone healing

• Decreased inflammation

• Improved muscle performance

• Improved anxiety and depression

Clinical research has shown that there are no significant side effects associated with PEMF. It is recognized as an effective, painless, and noninvasive alternative health treatment option with minimal side effects. 

Because of its safety, efficacy, and simplicity of use, many people have misconceptions about it and PEMF therapy is considered quackery by some.  But this is not true, and tons of clinical research proves the benefits of PEMF on overall health.

This treatment modality works on the principle of applying low-frequency electromagnetic radiation. The radiation stimulates organs, thereby activating cellular energy and supporting natural repair mechanisms, among other beneficial effects.

PEMF treatment does not have the drawbacks that other standard management techniques have. While it is rare to come across any side effects of PEMF therapy, there are a few people who have reported small side effects from their wellness sessions. 

This article explains the possible side effects of PEMF therapy and how to deal with them.

What are the side effects of PEMF therapy?

The side effects of this technology are rare and mostly reported in individuals whose bodies are naturally susceptible to any electromagnetic field emitted by equipment such as cell phones or WiFi routers (also known as EMFs or "dirty electricity").

Some individuals are hypersensitive to electromagnetic waves. Therefore, procedures like PEMF therapy feel much more intense than normal. Here are a few possible negative consequences:

1.Temporary increase in pain

When patients suffer from chronic pain, the prolonged use of painkillers can result in stomach problems, internal bleeding, and resistance to or addiction to some drugs. Here, PEMF therapy is used as a suitable alternative.

However, there are certain negative effects associated with it in terms of pain relief. In some cases, the pain may temporarily increase. This occurs because of the improved circulation to the muscle and nerve cells caused by the electromagnetic fields.

It is advised that PEMF therapy should be started at the lowest possible intensity for patients who are experiencing extreme pain.

2. Increase in oxidative stress

PEMF therapy stimulates blood flow or circulation throughout the body. Therefore, it is a preferred treatment option and strongly recommended for individuals who have poor blood flow. However, it is important to remember that the increase in blood flow persists for a while even after the therapy is stopped. This may cause some undesirable effects on the body, such as increased oxidative stress.

Oxidative stress occurs because of an imbalance of free radicals in the body. The body produces an excessive amount of free radicals and cannot eliminate them, resulting in harmful effects.

To avoid oxidative stress, the doctor may advise taking antioxidants before, during, and after the treatment. It is also recommended to consume antioxidant-rich foods such as spinach, apples, kale, and other fruits and vegetables.

3. Reduction in blood pressure

A decrease in blood pressure and heart rate are some other side effects of PEMF therapy. This side effect can be dangerous for some people, particularly if they are elderly or have heart problems. Long-term bedridden patients may also be negatively affected. Patients who are not used to the change in blood pressure sometimes experience dizziness and fainting. The effect is most noticeable with a change in position.

It is advised to get up slowly when rising from a seated or lying position. This will prevent the feeling of lightheadedness.

4. Fall in blood sugar levels

It is often seen that there is a significant fall in blood sugar levels after PEMF therapy is started. Individuals who struggle to maintain their blood sugar levels should take caution. It is advised to carry a source of sugar, like candy, before beginning the treatment session.

5. Nutritional deficiency

Another side effect of PEMF therapy is nutritional deficiency. This therapy makes the body use a lot of nutrients, which overall leads to a decrease in nutrients in the body. To avoid this adverse effect, use specially designed Sentient Element that are used by trained specialists and under the supervision of a nutrition professional.

6. Changes in the body's response to drugs

Electromagnetic waves have the potential to increase blood clotting, or coagulation. Hence, it can counteract the effects of anticoagulant drugs such as aspirin. If you are taking anticoagulant medications, consult your doctor before starting PEMF therapy.

7. Aggravations of existing inflammatory conditions

Sudden increases in circulation caused by electromagnetic waves may aggravate preexisting extensive or severe inflammatory conditions, most often in the skin. Hives might also worsen, which should be considered before beginning the therapy.

8. Tingling sensation

Some people report feelings of discomfort, like tingling sensations, when the treatment is started. This type of side effect is usually seen in patients with preexisting or underlying conditions such as chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia (muscle pain and tenderness all over the body).

9. Other minor side effects

During initial exposure to electromagnetic waves, the body's toxins exit the cells and the oxygen concentration increases in the cells. This involves some stretching and relaxing, which results in minor side effects such as:

• Increased fatigue

• Mild headaches

• Sleep disturbances

• Weakness or loss of energy

• Dizziness

• Palpitation

• Metallic tastes

• Thirst

• Increased urination

Patients may also have perceptions of colors in the visual fields, warmth, cold sensations, and prickly sensations in the skin. Every individual has different levels of sensitivity to magnetic and electric fields; therefore, skin sensations may vary from person to person.

Tips to reduce the side effects of PEMF therapy

Side effects caused by PEMF therapy are temporary and tend to diminish relatively quickly with continued treatment. You will be able to overcome the side effects once your body becomes used to radiation. Here are some tips that you can follow to lessen any side effects.

• Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water before and after PEMF therapies keeps your body and cells hydrated while also accelerating the detox process.

• Take nutritional supplements: When nutritional supplements are taken before the beginning of PEMF treatment, the majority of patients experience fewer side effects.

• Make small changes in protocols: If the side effects are severe and intolerable, you can lower the intensity and number of sessions. Make sure these changes are made only after consulting a doctor.

Are side effects of PEMF therapy severe?

The side effects of PEMF therapy are usually not concerning, but they should be recognized as a normal consequence of magnetic therapy. These reactions typically subside as the electromagnetic therapy continues and stabilizes body functions.

The majority of PEMF side effects are mild and temporary. They are easily managed by simply continuing the therapy. It is rare that magnetic therapy needs to be discontinued except in cases where a patient is hypersensitive to electromagnetic waves.

If magnetic therapy induces pain in a body part that does not usually have pain, this might indicate an undiagnosed underlying disease in that body part, and a medical examination should be performed.

When is PEMF therapy potentially harmful?

PEMF therapy is considered safe because the majority of people do not experience any significant side effects. In addition, there is limited scientific evidence to support the side effects and contraindications of PEMF therapy, so certain precautions are advised as a safety measure.

Avoid PEMF therapy in case of the following:

Patients who are pregnant or planning pregnancy

It is suggested that pregnant women should avoid PEMF therapy, as there is a lack of safety data to support the use of electromagnetic waves during pregnancy. Consult the doctor to ensure that PEMF therapy is not harmful to the fetus. It is also important to consult the doctor if you are planning a pregnancy to avoid the chances of miscarriage.

Patients with pacemakers

PEMF therapy may be harmful if you have a pacemaker implanted. The electromagnetic fields may interfere with the proper functioning of your pacemaker. Consult your doctor to avoid the unwanted effects of PEMF therapy.

Cancer

Chemotherapy patients should avoid PEMF treatment. As the therapy promotes cell growth and repair, it can increase cancer cell growth. Thus, PEMF therapy produces effects that are opposite to those of chemotherapeutic medicines.

To safely use PEMF in patients with cancer, it is advised to start PEMF treatment after chemotherapy has been completed. However, more research is needed in this area, as some studies suggest that PEMF therapy may complement chemotherapy medications in achieving their goal.

Children

Certain biophysical processes occur during PEMF therapy which activates the cell membrane. Among the various effects are bone calcification and enhanced blood circulation in the treated area. Thus, PEMF therapy is not recommended for youngsters who are still in their growth phase.

Before beginning the treatment in children, it is recommended that you consult with a doctor. They can decide whether the therapy is safe for your child.

Patients with magnetic prostheses

PEMF therapy is generally not advised for patients with magnetic prostheses. If you have a prosthesis and are unsure of what material it is made of, consult an orthopedist for confirmation of the type of material used.

Other conditions in which precaution should be maintained before using PEMF therapy are:

• Tuberculosis

• Acute viral illnesses

• Cardiomyopathy

• Epilepsy

Takeaway

Apart from the above-mentioned side effects, PEMF therapy is considered one of the safest home therapies. If used consistently, it has many benefits, including pain alleviation, reduced inflammation, and relief from depression and arthritic symptoms.

Other modalities can provide comparable benefits, but the number of negative effects associated with them can make them undesirable. 

Thus, PEMF is highly considered over other treatment modalities. A small number of individuals experience negative effects with PEMF therapy; however, if you are one of them, remember that any side effect is just temporary.