


International Studies of PEMF
as Reported by the NIH and others.
The following is taken directly from the National Library of Medicine Website. It is not an endorsement of PEMF, but rather a list of studies and findings. The complete list of studies and the full report can be found at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10379303/
Environmental biophysical interactions are recognized to play an essential part in the human biological processes associated with trauma recovery. Many studies over several decades have furthered our understanding of the effects that Pulsed Electromagnetic Fields (PEMF) have on the human body, as well as on cellular and biophysical systems. These investigations have been driven by the observed positive clinical effects of this non-invasive treatment on patients, mainly in orthopedics. In this review, we give a birds-eye view of the vast landscape of studies that have been published on PEMF, presenting the reader with a scaffolded summary of relevant literature starting from categorical literature reviews down to individual studies for future research studies and clinical use.
1. Introduction
It is considered a fact that cells and corresponding tissues are responsive to changes in their environment, such as mechanical stress, fluctuations in pH and O2 levels, or fluid flow. External mechanical forces are specifically relevant in wound healing, but they also play a central role in bone formation. This particular process was already described in 1892 by Wolf, who indicated that bone growth and remodeling are induced by external forces.
Pulsed electromagnetic fields (PEMFs) have been suggested to elicit a similar biological tissue and cellular response by directly inducing electrical currents in the therapy zone while forgoing any mechanical agitation. This treatment concept is far from new; in fact, PEMF was introduced as a treatment in the 1970s by Bassett and colleagues, and continues to be an interesting clinical treatment strategy with ongoing new indications. Following FDA approval in 1979, this treatment approach has been in clinical use for several decades in treating orthopedic indications, such as bone formation, non-unions, osteoarthritis, and more. In these treatments, a wide range of treatment parameters such as EM pulse shapes and sequences have been considered, and the effectiveness of PEMF therapies has become more elucidated, not only in orthopedics.
2. Technology
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. For the generation of the pulses, different waveform shapes are used with PEMF, ranging from rectangular and triangle to sinusoidal, thus including a range of harmonic field frequencies. The therapeutic exposure times may vary from a few minutes up to thirty minutes. Some patients have immediate relief while others see effects over many months.
3. Tissue Interaction
The applied PEMF field therefore influences tissues in two ways: Firstly, the magnetic field creates a force on tissue-resided molecules which depend on their magnetic reactive properties, and secondly, the induced electrical field, which exerts a force on the ions present in the tissue; both result in a forced movement of ions or charged particles, such as proteins. Panagopoulus et al. propose that a low field frequency may have more potential to be bioactive than static magnetic fields, and a pulsed magnetic field may be twice as effective as a continuous one. While the magnetic flux density or the magnetic field strength is mostly specified in PEMF studies, the actual signal form, which is essential for determining the induced electric field as specified above, is rarely provided.
4. Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a common and debilitating joint disease that affects millions of people globally. Current treatments for OA focus primarily on symptom management, but often do not provide lasting relief.
In a recent review paper with meta-analysis, 11 prospective randomized trials involving 614 patients were identified after an informed selection process. Critical OA-associated symptoms, such as pain, stiffness, and physical function, were identified, and the effect of PEMF was determined. Pain indicators, such as WOMAC and VAS, showed a significant reduction compared with the baseline. The parameters of stiffness and physical function in the WOMAC score also showed significant improvement compared with the control intervals.
Not surprisingly, another meta-analysis conducted slightly earlier in 2020 came to a similar conclusion, as 8 of the 15 included studies overlapped with the aforementioned study. Again, the analyses show significant pain relief, without, however, significantly improving stiffness and function, at least in the <4 weeks of PEMF therapy. This meta-analysis also accounted for 3 papers evaluating quality of life, but only one of these showed a clearly significant improvement in quality of life, again, in the <4 weeks of PEMF therapy compared with the control group.
5. Osteopenia
Another review on electrical stimulation in osteoporosis locates clinical evidence that PEMFs may alleviate osteoporosis-related pain, and that bone mass and, thus, osteoporosis could be favorably influenced by PEMF through a RANKL/OPG and Wnt/-catenin pathway. Although the FDA has not yet approved PEMF for the treatment of osteoporosis, based on the current experimental and clinical data, this non-invasive procedure could be an effective adjunct in this indication.
6. Neurology
Although not as commonly used as in orthopedics, PEMF therapy has also been used in neurology, mostly known as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). Funk et al. made a comprehensive summary of the effects experienced in clinical trials using magnetic fields, including PEMF, for treating neurological diseases. Specifically, for Alzheimer’s disease, pulsed electromagnetic fields have been shown to reduce inflammation and produce vasodilatory effects, improving blood circulation. They also summarized other clinical parameters that improved in neurodegenerative diseases after electromagnetic therapy.
7. Wound Healing
PEMF therapy has also been used to treat wounds. Strauch et al. reviewed the use of PEMF in plastic and reconstructive surgery cases. They suggested that PEMF affects pain relief after surgery and reduces swelling. Also, Palmieri et al. made a narrative review on the clinical effects of PEMF on wound healing, where the work of Kwan et al. was highlighted, which showcased the effect of PEMF on chronic diabetic foot ulcers. The volunteers were randomly allocated to the PEMF or the control group. The treatment consisted of 14 sessions over three weeks, with a field frequency of 12 Hz and an intensity of 1.2 mT. After one month, the treated group showed an 18% decrease in wound size, compared to a 10% decrease in the control group.
8. Oncology
The use of PEMF is still very limited in clinical oncology. Vadala et al. reviewed the existing literature on PEMF therapy in clinical oncology, where one study looked at brain tumors, hepatocellular carcinomas, and more. Patients applied themselves PEMF for 60 min with a predefined tumor-specific frequency. Four of the 28 patients presented with stable disease, meaning no progression in tumor growth or new metastasis.
Another study by Costa et al. showcased the use of PEMF on 41 patients with advanced hepatocellular cancer. They received three sessions, with each session lasting 60 min, with frequencies ranging from 100 Hz–21 kHz. Five patients reported a complete disappearance of pain shortly after the treatment. No study patient complained of adverse events associated with the treatment. They conclude that PEMF has a significant anti-tumor effect in the reduction of growth and provides relief of pain in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma.
9. Concluding Remarks Regarding Clinical Applications
In conclusion, even though the lack of consistent study parameters makes PEMF effects scientifically challenging to evaluate, this non-invasive and comparatively inexpensive treatment tool, which does not require any additional infrastructure, has been shown to positively contribute to difficult clinical conditions in orthopedics and traumatology. In particular, effective adjuvant options to the respective standard therapies in orthopedics and other medical fields stand to change future care strategies and patient outcomes.
PEMF RESEARCH
International Clinical Studies
Next to specific QRS Research there are many scientific studies available on pulsed electromagnetic fields (PEMFs) and health. Below is an extensive list of peer-reviewed abstracts discussing the effects of pulsed electromagnetic fields on several ailments. The list below demonstrates the potential of PEMFs but is in no way a complete list of benefits. If you don’t find what you’re looking for go to www.pubmed.com. This is an excellent source for articles from life science journals and biomedical articles. Type in “pulsed magnetic field therapy and” then type in what you’re looking for. For example: pulsed magnetic field therapy and arthritis.
Peer-Reviewed Scientific Studies on the Effects of Magnetics on Physical Ailments
The impact of treatment with magnetic fields on a variety of physical ailments are presented in the following descriptions of recent studies, published in peer-reviewed scientific journals.
Alzheimer’s Disease
On review, after applying external electromagnetic fields ranging 5 to 8 Hz, large improvements were detected in Alzheimer’s patients. These included improved visual memory, drawing performance, spatial orientation, mood, short-term memory and social interactions.
R. Sandyk, “Alzheimer’s Disease: Improvement of Visual Memory and Visuoconstructive Performance Treatment with Picotesla Range Magnetic Fields,” International Journal of Neurosci, 76(3-4),
June 1994, p. 185-225.
As generally supported, a persons biological daily clock may causally be related to memory deterioration in Alzheimer’s patients and in the ageing. Synchronizing of the circadian rhythms using magnetic fields, (this article suggests) could lead to improved memory for those affected.
R. Sandyk, et al., “Age-related Disruption of Circadian Rhythms: Possible Relationship to Memory Impairment and Implications for Therapy with Magnetic Fields,” International Journal of Neurosci, 59(4), August 1991, p. 259-262.
Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
A study of three patients with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis were treated with a pulsed magnetic field administered by a Magnobiopulse apparatus. Given three times a week for approximately 75 sessions to achieve maximum benefits, all three experienced beneficial effects.
A. Bellosi & R. Berget, “Pulsed Magnetic Fields: A Glimmer of Hope for Patients Suffering from Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis,” Second World Congress for Electricity and Magnetism in Biology and Medicine,
8-13 June 1997, Bologna, Italy.
Ankle Sprain
Results of this double-blind, placebo-controlled study indicated that treatment with two 30-minute sessions of noninvasive pulsed radio frequency therapy is effective in significantly decreasing the time required for edema reduction in patients suffering from lateral ankle sprains.
A.A. Pilla & L. Kloth, “Effect of Pulsed Radio Frequency Therapy on Edema in Ankle Sprains: A Multisite Double-Blind Clinical Study,” Second World Congress for Electricity and Magnetism in Biology and Medicine,
8-13 June 1997, Bologna, Italy, p. 300.
Arthritis
Three hours of exposure to a 50-Hz magnetic field in this study revealed that experimentally induced inflammation and suppressed arthritis in rats was significantly inhibited as a result.
Y. Mizushima, et al., “Effects of Magnetic Field on Inflammation,” Experientia, 31(12),
December 15, 1975, p.1411-1412.
Another double-blind, placebo-controlled research study on the effects of pulsed electrical fields administered over a 4 week period revealed significant improvement in patients receiving the therapy relative to the controls.
J.C. Reynolds, “The Use of Implantable Direct Current Stimulation in Bone Grafted Foot and Ankle Arthrodeses: A Retrospective Review,” Second World Congress for Electricity and Magnetism in Biology and Medicine,
8-13 June 1997, Bologna, Italy.
In this general review article on the treatment of patients with psoriatic arthritis with magnetic fields, the authors state that an alternating low-frequency magnetic field (30-40 mT) from such generators as “Polius-1″ and “Polius-101″ improves the clinical state of afflicted joints. Such treatments are normally carried out for 30 minutes per day over a period of 15 to 20 days.
V.D. Grigor’eva, et al., “Therapeutic Use of Physical Factors in Complex Therapy of Patients with Psoriatic Arthritis,” Vopr Kurortol Fizioter Lech Fiz Kult, (6), 1995, p. 48-51
This research studied the effects of magnetolaser therapy alone or combined with conventional drugs in rheumatoid arthritis patients. This treatment utilized a AMLT-01 device for magnetolaser therapy and consisted of 14 days with 6 minute exposures daily. An obvious improvement was seen after 3 days of treatment, with greater improvement by patients suffering from mild to moderate levels of the disease. End results computed into a 90 percent patient improvement rate.
9B.Y. Drozdovski, et al., “Use of Magnetolaser Therapy with an AMLT-01 Apparatus in Complex Therapy for Rheumatoid Arthritis,” Fiz Med, 4(1-2),
1994, p. 101-102
This study on 7 to 14 year old juveniles suffering from rheumatoid arthritis examined effects of low-frequency magnetic fields from a Polius-1 device. Ten daily treatment exposures of 10 to 12 minutes each were conducted on three experimental groups. The three groups showed 58, 76, 37 percent beneficial effects from the treatment.
E.A. Shlyapok, et al., “Use of Alternating Low-Frequency Magnetic Fields in Combination with Radon Baths for Treatment of Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis,” Vopr Kurortol Fizioter Lech Fiz Kult, 4,
1992, p. 13-17.
Low frequency and constant magnetic fields in patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthrosis was the focus of this study. Patients with stages 1 & 2 rheumatoid arthritis as well as patients with osteoarthrosis deformans, showed the beneficial effects from treatments. These low frequency, constant magnetic fields were found especially beneficial to the knees, ankles and wrists.
V.D. Grigor’eva, et al., “Therapeutic Application of Low-Frequency and Constant Magnetic Fields in Patients with Osteoarthritis Deformans and Rheumatoid Arthritis,” Vopr Kurortol Fizioter Lech Fiz Kult, 4, 1980, p. 29-35.
Bone Fractures
A group of 83 adults with ununited fractures were examined for the effects of bone grafting and pulsed electromagnetic fields for this study. Results showed a successful healing rate of 87 percent in the original 38 patients treated with bone grafts and PEMF for ununited fractures with wide gaps, malalignment, and synovial pseudarthrosis. Of the 45 patients that were not successfully treated with PEMF and had bone grafting, when re-treated with pulsing electromagnetic fields, achieved a 93 percent success rate.
C.A. Bassett, et al., “Treatment of Therapeutically Resistant Non-unions with Bone Grafts and Pulsing Electromagnetic Fields,” Journal of Bone Joint Surg, 64(8), October 1982, p. 1214-1220.
Examining the effects of pulsing electromagnetic fields on 125 patients suffering from ununited fractures of the tibial diaphysis, showed a healing success rate of 87%.
C.A. Bassett, et al., “Treatment of Ununited Tibial Diaphyseal Fractures with Pulsing Electromagnetic Fields,” Journal of Bone Joint Surg, 63(4),
April 1981, p. 511-523.
Results of this study showed treatment with pulsed electromagnetic fields resulted in an overall success rate of at least 75 percent in patients suffering from tibial lesions.
M.W. Meskens, et al., “Treatment of Delayed Union and Nonunion of the Tibia Pulsed Electromagnetic Fields. A Retrospective Follow-up,” Bull Hosp Jt Dis Orthop Inst, 48(2), Fall 1988, p. 170-175.
This review article makes the following observations with respect to the use of pulsed electromagnetic fields in treating ununited fractures, failed arthrodeses, and congenital pseudarthroses. The treatment has been shown to be more than 90 percent effective in adult patients. In cases where union does not occur with PEMFs alone after approximately four months, PEMF treatment coupled with fresh bone grafts ensures a maximum failure rate of only 1 to 1.5 percent. For those with delayed union three to four months following fracture, PEMFs appear to be more successful than in patients treated with other conservative methods. For more serious conditions, including infected nonunions, multiple surgical failures, long-standing atrophic lesions, failed knee arthrodeses after removal of infected prostheses, and congenital pseudarthroses, PEMF treatment has exhibited success in most patients.17
C.A. Bassett, “The Development and Application of Pulsed Electromagnetic Fields (PEMFs) for Ununited Fractures and Arthrodeses,” Clin Plast Surg, 12(2), April 1985, p. 259-277.
Results of this study found that 35 of 44 non-united scaphoid fractures 6 months or older healed in a mean time of 4.3 months during pulsed electromagnetic field treatment using external coils and a thumb spica cast.
G.K. Frykman, et al., “Treatment of Nonunited Scaphoid Fractures Pulsed Electromagnetic Field and Cast,” Journal of Hand Surg, 11(3),
May 1986, p. 344-349.
This double-blind, placebo-controlled study examined the effects of pulsed electromagnetic fields in femoral neck fracture patients undergoing conventional therapy. PEMF treatment was started within two weeks of fracture, and patients were instructed to make use of the electromagnetic device for 8 hours per day over a 90-day period. Results showed beneficial effects relative to controls after 18 months of follow-up.
E. Betti, et al., “Effect of Electromagnetic Field Stimulation on Fractures of the Femoral Neck. A Prospective Randomized Double-Blind Study,” Second World Congress for Electricity and Magnetism in Biology and Medicine, 8-13 June 1997, Bologna, Italy.
Results of this double-blind study showed significant healing effects of low-frequency pulsing electromagnetic fields in patients treated with femoral intertrochanteric osteotomy for hip degenerative arthritis.
G. Borsalino, et al., “Electrical Stimulation of Human Femoral Intertrochanteric Osteotomies. Double-Blind Study,” Clin Orthop, (237), December 1988, . 256-263.
In this study, 147 patients with fractures of the tibia, femur, and humerus who had failed to benefit from surgery-received treatment with external skeletal fixation in situ and pulsed electromagnetic fields. Results indicated an overall success rate of 73 percent. Femur union was seen in 81 percent and tibia union in 75 percent.
M. Marcer, et al., “Results of Pulsed Electromagnetic Fields (PEMFs) in Ununited Fractures after External Skeletal Fixation,” Clin Orthop, (190),
November 1984, . 260-265
This study examined the effects of extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields (1-1000 Hz, 4 gauss) on new bone fractures of female patients. Results led the authors to suggest that EMF treatment accelerates the early stages of fracture healing.
J.C. Mulier & F. Spaas, “Out-patient Treatment of Surgically Resistant Non-unions Induced Pulsing Current – Clinical Results,” Arch Orthop Trauma Surg, 97(4), 1980,.293-297.
In this interview with Dr. C. Andrew L. Bassett, a physician researching the use of pulsed electromagnetic fields for the past 30 years at Columbia University’s Orthopedic Research Lab, Dr. Bassett notes that approximately 10,000 of the 12,000-plus orthopedic surgeons in the U.S. have used pulsed electromagnetic fields on at least one patient. Many such surgeons have incorporated the therapy on a more regular basis. He estimates that a total of at least 65,000 patients nationwide have received the treatment, with a probable success rate of between 80 and 90 percent. Use of the treatment has been primarily in patients suffering from nonunited fractures, fusion failures, and pseudoarthrosis.
C.A. Bassett, “Conversations with C. Andrew L. Bassett, M.D. Pulsed Electromagnetic Fields. A Noninvasive Therapeutic Modality for Fracture Nonunion (Interview),” Orthop. Review, 15(12)1986 781-795.
Results of this study showed pulsed electromagnetic fields to have beneficial healing effects in patients suffering from difficult to treat and surgically resistant bone non-unions. 35#
This review article notes that the use of pulsed electromagnetic fields began in 1974, and that 250,000 nonunion patients have received the treatment since. The author argues that success rates are comparable to those of bone grafting, and that PEMF treatment is more cost-effective and free of side effects. The FDA approved PEMF use in 1982, although it remains widely unused due to physician misunderstanding and lack of knowledge concerning the treatment.
A. Bassett, “Therapeutic Uses of Electric and Magnetic Fields in Orthopedics,& quot; in D.O. Carpenter & S. Ayrapetyan, (eds.), Biological Effects of Electric and Magnetic Fields. Volume II: beneficial and Harmful Effects, San Diego: Academic Press, 1994, . 13-48.
This 7-year study examined data on more than 11,000 cases of nonunions treated with pulsed electromagnetic fields for up to 10 to 12 hours per day. Results indicated an overall success rate of 75 percent.
Bronchitis
Results of this double-blind, placebo-controlled study indicated that both low-frequency electromagnetic field treatment and treatment with pulsed electromagnetic fields proved effective in patients suffering from chronic bronchitis when coupled with standard drug therapies. Magnetic field treatment consisted of a total of 15 15-20-minute daily exposures.
V.M. Iurlov, et al., “The Efficacy of the Use of Low-Frequency Electromagnetic Fields in Chronic Bronchitis,” Voen Med Zh, 3,
1989, . 35-36.
Cancer
R.R. Raylman, et al., “Exposure to Strong Static Magnetic Field Slows the Growth of Human Cancer Cells in Vitro,” Bioelectromagnetics, 17(5),
1996, . 358-363.
This study examined the effects of a rotational magnetic field on a group of 51 breast cancer patients. Results showed a significant positive response in 27 of them.
N.G. Bakhmutskii, et al., “The Assessment of the Efficacy of the Effect of a Rotational Magnetic Field on the Course of the Tumor Process in Patients with Generalized Breast Cancer,” Sov Med, (7), 1991, . 25-27.
Results of this study indicated that exposure to a rotational magnetic field inhibited Walker’s carcinoma tumor growth as much as 90 percent in some cases.
N.G. Bakhmutskii, et al., “The Growth Dynamics of Walker Carcinosarcoma During Exposure to a Magnetic Eddy Field,” Vopr Onkol,
37(6), 1991, . 705-708.
Results of this study indicated that pulsed magnetic field stimulation increased the incorporation of antitumor agents into cells, and thus increased antitumor activity shifting the cell cycle to a proliferative from a nonproliferative phase.
Y. Omote, “An Experimental Attempt to Potentiate Therapeutic Effects of Combined Use of Pulsing Magnetic Fields and Antitumor Agents,” Nippon Geka Gakkai Zasshi, 89(8), August 1988, .. 1155-1166.
Results of this study found that 20-30 sessions of magnetotherapy administered preoperatively exhibited antitumor effects in patients suffering from lung cancer.
L.S. Ogorodnikova, et al., “Morphological Criteria of Lung Cancer Regression Under the Effect of Magnetotherapy,” Vopr Onkol, 26(1),
1980, . 28-34.
This study examined the effects of microwave resonance therapy (MRT) in patients suffering from various forms of cancer. Results showed that MRT treatment prior to surgery reduced the spread of cancer-associated conditions and reduced the risk associated with surgery in 87 percent of patients. MRT applied postoperatively had beneficial effects in 68 percent.
D.V. Miasoedov, et al., “Experience with the Use of Microwave Resonance Therapy as a Modifying Factor in Oncological Therapy,” Abstracts of the First All-Union Symposium with International Participation, May 10-13, 1989, Kiev, Ukraine, .. 313-315.
Results of this study proved that the combination of weak pulsed electromagnetic fields with antioxidant supplementation is beneficial in the treatment of patients suffering from tongue cancer, improving speech, pain control, and tolerance to chemotherapy.
U. Randoll & R.M. Pangan, “The Role of Complex Biophysical-Chemical Therapies for Cancer,”
Bioelectrochem Bioenerg, 27(3), 1992, . 341-346.
Results of this controlled study indicated that treatment with a constant magnetic field significantly improved long-term (3-year) survival time in patients undergoing radiation therapy for cancer of the throat. Constant magnetic field therapy consisted of the application of 300 mT for 30 minutes to tumor and metastasizing regions immediately prior to each irradiation.
Results of this Russian study indicated that the use of whole body eddy magnetic fields, coupled with more conventional cancer therapies (including magnetotherapy) is effective in the treatment of patients suffering from a variety of different malignancies.
V. Smirnova, “Anti-Tumorigenic Action of an Eddy Magnetic Field,”
Vrach, 2, 1994, . 25-26
This article reports on the case of a 48-year-old-woman with breast cancer who was treated successfully with magnetotherapy. Infiltration showed a marked decrease following 30 whole body exposures to an eddy magnetic field for 60 minutes. One metastatic node disappeared while the size of others was reduced following 60 such exposures. A total regression of tumor and metastases was seen following the completion of a course of 110 exposures.
N.G. Bakhmutskii, et al., “A Case of Successful Treatment of a Patient with Breast Cancer Using a Rotating Electromagnetic Field,” Soviet Medicine, 8, 1991, . 86-87.
This study examined the effects of whole body magnetic fields (16.5-35 G, 50-165 Hz) on patients suffering from different forms of cancer. Treatment consisted of 15 cycles, each 1-20 minutes in duration, and was coupled with more traditional cancer therapies. Results showed that the magnetotherapy had overall beneficial effects, particularly with respect to improved immune status and postoperative recovery.
V.A. Lubennikov, et al., “First Experience in Using a Whole-Body Magnetic Field Exposure in Treating Cancer Patients,”
Vopr Onkol, 41(2), 1995, . 140-141.
Dental Problems
This controlled study examined the effects of adjunctive Diapulse electromagnetic therapy on oral surgery recovery. Patients received the therapy once per day beginning between 3 to 5 days prior to oral surgery. Therapy was maintained until the point of hospital release. Results found the therapy produced significant healing relative to controls, which received conventional treatment only.
L.C. Rhodes, “The Adjunctive Utilization of Diapulse Therapy Pulsed High Peak Power Electromagnetic Energy) in Accelerating Tissue Healing in Oral Surgery,” Q National Dental Association, 40(1),
1981, . 4-11
This study found that patients suffering from various oral diseases experienced more rapid healing when treated with both conventional therapies and 30 minutes per day of pulsed electromagnetic fields (5 mT, 30 Hz), as opposed to conventional therapies alone.
V. Hillier-Kolarov & N. Pekaric-Nadj, “PEMF Therapy as an Additional Therapy for Oral deseases,”European Bioelectromagnetics Association, 1st Congress,
23-25 January 1992, Brussels, Belgium.
Depression
This review article examined the literature concerning the use of transcranial magnetic stimulation in the treatment of depression. Results showed the high-frequency, repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation treatment to be an effective, side-effect free therapy for depression that may hold promise for treating related psychiatric disorders as well.
M.T. Kirkcaldie, et al., Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation as Therapy for Depression and Other Disorders,” Aust N Z J Psychiatry, 31(2), April 1997, . 264-272.
Noting that there is good reason to believe the pineal gland is a magnetosensitive system and that application of magnetic fields in experimental animals has a similar effect to that of acute exposure to light with respect to melatonin secretion, the authors propose that magnetic treatment could be a beneficial new therapy for winter depression in humans.
R. Sandyk, et al., “Magnetic Felds and Seasonality of Affective Illness: Implications for Therapy,” International Journal of Neurosci, 58(3-4),
June 1991, . 261-267.
This review article notes that transcranial magnetic stimulation has been shown to elicit antidepressant effects, electically stimulating deep regions of the brain.
C. Haag, et al., “Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation. A Diagnostic Means from Neurology as Therapy in Psychiatry?” Nervenarzt, 68(3), March 1997, . 274-278.
In this theoretical paper, the author argues that deep, low-rate transcranial magnetic stimulation can produce therapeutic effects equivalent to those of electroconvulsive therapy but without the dangerous side effects.
T. Zyss, “Will Electroconvulsive Therapy Induce Seizures: Magnetic Brain Stimulation as Hypothesis of a New Psychiatric Therapy,” Psychiatr Pol, 26(6),
November-December 1992, . 531-541.
This study examined the effects of millimeter wave (MW) therapy as a supplemental treatment in patients suffering from various types of depression. MW therapy involved the use of a “Yav’-1″ apparatus (5.6 mm wavelength, 53 GHz), and consisted of up to 60 minutes of exposure per day, 2 to 3 times per week, for a total of as many as 15 exposures. Results showed that combined MW/conventional treatment produced a complete recovery in over 50 percent of cases studied, a significant improvement in 41 percent, and some improvement in 8 percent. Recovery rates among controls (conventional treatment only) were 4, 48, and 41 percent, respectively.
G.V. Morozov, et al., “Treatment of Neurotic Depression with a Help of Extremely High Frequency Electromagnetic Radiation,” Zh Nevropatol Psikhiatr Im S S Korsakova, 96(6),
1996, . 28-31.
Results of this study led researchers to conclude that patients suffering from major depression experienced a significant reduction of depressive symptoms following treatment with transcranial magnetic stimulation coupled with standard medication relative to patients taking the medicine. This was true after just three TMS treatments.
Conca, et al., “Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation: A Novel Antidepressive Strategy?” Neuropsychobiology, 34(4),
1996, . 204-207.
Dermatitis
This study examined the effects of conventional treatments combined with millimeter wave (MW) therapy (54- to 70-GHz frequency, 8-15 daily exposures of 15-30 minutes each) on patients suffering from atopic dermatitis. Results indicated that the MW therapy was well-tolerated all patients, with the rash generally regressing after 7-8 exposures. Marked recovery was seen among 78 percent of patients receiving the combination treatments. Two-year follow-up showed a 23-percent relapse rate among combination patients, compared to 54 percent among ontrols.
V.P. Adaskevich, “Effectiveness of the Use of Millimeter-Range Electromagnetic Radiation in Complex Treatment of Atopic Dermatitis Patients,” Millimetrovie Volni v Biologii I Meditcine, (3), 1994, . 78-81
Diabetes
In this study, 320 diabetics received impulsed magnetic field treatment while 100 diabetics (controls) received conservative therapy alone. Results showed beneficial effects with respect to vascular complications in 74 percent of the patients receiving magnetotherapy combined with conservative methods, compared to a 28-percent effectiveness rate among controls.
I.B. Kirillovm, et al., “Magentotherapy in the Comprehensive Treatment of Vascular Complications of Diabetes Mellitus,” Klin Med, 74(5), 1996, . 39-41.
This study involving 72 diabetics with purulent wounds found that magnetic fields aided healing significantly.
R.A. Kuliev & R.F. Babaev, “A Magnetic Field in the Combined Treatment of Suppurative Wounds in Diabetes Mellitus,” Vestn Khir Im I I Grek, 148(1),
January 1992, . 33-36.
Diseases of the Larynx
Results of this study found that alternative magnetic field of sound frequency proved to be an effective treatment in patients suffering from acute inflammatory diseases of the larynx.
D.I. Tarasov, et al., “Effectiveness of Local Magnetic Field of the Acoustic Frequency in the Treatment of Patients with Acute Inflammatory Diseases of the Larynx,” Vestn Otorinolaringol, (6),
November-December 1995, . 11-15.
Epilepsy
This article reports on the cases of three patients with partial seizures who received treatment with external artificial magnetic fields of low intensity. Such treatment led to a significant attenuation of seizure frequency over a 10-14-month period.
P.A. Anninos, et al., “Magnetic Stimulation in the Treatment of Partial Seizures,” International Journal of Neurosci, 60(3-4),
October 1991, . 141-171.
Experimental results indicated that the administration of modulated electromagnetic fields of 2-30 Hz suppressed epilepsy in rats.
G.D. Antimonii & R.A. Salamov, “Action of a Modulated Electromagnetic Field on Experimentally Induced Epileptiform Brain Activity in Rats,” Biull Eksp Biol Med, 89(2),
February 1980, .
This review article cites one study in particular in which results showed that pretreatment with 30 minutes of exposure to a 75-mT pole strength, DC-powered magnetic field significantly prevented experimentally induced seizures in mice.
M.J. McLean, et al., “Therapeutic Efficacy of a Static Magnetic Device in Three Animal Seizure Models: Summary of Experience,” Second World Congress for Electricity and Magnetism in Biology and Medicine, 8-13 June 1997, Bologna, Italy.
This double-blind, placebo-controlled study examined the effects of 2-hour exposure to weak magnetic fields (0.2-0.7 G, irregularly oscillating 0.026-0.067 Hz) produced 3 pairs of orthogonal Helmholtz coils on pain perception in healthy subjects. Results showed that magnetic treatment significantly reduced the perception of pain.
F. Sartucci, et al., “Human Exposure to Oscillating Magnetic Fields Produces Changes in Pain Perception and Pain-Related Somatosensory Evoked Potentials,” Second World Congress for Electricity and Magnetism in Biology and Medicine, 8-13 June 1997, Bologna, Italy.
This article reports on the case of a severe epileptic who experienced a significant lessening of behavior disturbances and seizure frequency following treatment with low-frequency, external artificial magnetic fields.
R. Sandyk & P.A. Anninos, “Magnetic Fields Alter the Circadian Periodicity of Seizures,” International Journal of Neurosci, 63(3-4), April 1992, . 265-274.
Low-frequency, external artificial magnetic field treatment was shown to significantly reduce seizures in four adult epileptic cases.
R. Sandyk & P.A. Anninos, “Attenuation of Epilepsy with Application of External Magnetic Fields: A Case Report,” International Journal of Neurosci, 66(1-2),
September 1992, . 75-85.
Gastroduodenitis
Results of this study indicated that treatment with decimeter-band electromagnetic fields improved motor function of the stomach and reduced dyspepsia and pain in children suffering from chronic gastroduodenitis. Treatment made use of the
“Romashka” apparatus (a cylinder applicator, 100 mm in diameter, power of 6-8 W) applied to the gastroduodenal region, and consisted of 6-12 minute exposures every other day for a total of 8-12 exposures.
L.M. Petrukhina, et al., “Effect of a Decimeter Wave Electromagnetic Fields on the Motor Function of the Stomach in Children with Strong Gastroduodenitis,” Vopr Kurortol Fizioter Lech Fiz Kult, (1),
1987, . 54-56.
This controlled study examined the effects of sinusoidally modulated currents (100 Hz) coupled with conventional therapy in children suffering from chronic gastroduodenitis. Children received 8-10 exposures lasting between 6 and 10 minutes. Results showed that the treatment reduced inflammation in 72 percent of patients relative to just a 45-percent rate among controls. About 77 percent of treatment patients experienced elimination of gastro-esophageal and duodeno-gastral refluxes, compared to 29 percent of controls.
O.V. Bukanovich, et al., “Sinusoidally-Modulated Currents in the Therapy of Chronic Gastroduodenitis in Children,” Vopr Kurortol Fizioter Lech Fiz Kult, 2, 1996, . 22-26.