Explanation of what PEMF devices are and their benefits PEMF
PEMF (Pulsed ElectroMagnetic Field) devices are used to provide a pulsating magnetic field to the body in order to promote healing and health. These devices use a coil that is placed around the body. It emits pulses of varying frequencies and strengths. Which can help reduce inflammation, improve circulation, reduce stress, and aid in healing. PEMF therapy has been found to be beneficial for a wide range of conditions. Including pain relief, sleep improvement, migraine prevention, wound healing and even reducing anxiety. Additionally, PEMF devices can also help improve overall energy levels as well as mental clarity. Furthermore, they have been known to have anti-aging effects on the skin. By stimulating collagen production and reducing wrinkles. PEMF devices are easy to use and offer a safe alternative to traditional treatments for many health conditions. See What are the benefits of PEMF therapy for more information.
What is the importance of finding the right PEMF device?
Finding the right PEMF therapy device is essential for experiencing the full benefit of PEMF therapy. Different types of PEMF devices have different applications and settings. So an individual needs to consider their particular health condition and goals before deciding which type of device to use. Additionally, it is important to ensure that any PEMF device used is approved by your medical professional.
What are the types of PEMF devices?
- Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (PEMF) mats – These are portable, lightweight devices that emit electromagnetic fields through a mat that you can place on your body for therapeutic purposes. This is probably the most common type of PEMF device. If you are looking to treat your full body, then is probably the best PEMF system for you. These are the most devices are popular devices on the market today. I have an article on selecting a PEMF mat, you can find it here PEMF mat
- 2. PEMF coils or pads – can be small and portable devices that can be used to target specific areas of the body with an electromagnetic field for therapeutic purposes. I think they are great if you are looking to target only one specific area such as the lower back, this probably is a good option for you.
- 3. Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (PEMF) Wearable – These are small and portable devices that you wear to target specific areas of the body. It is a specialized magnetic device used in situations where you need a very portable solution. The therapy works by directing small areas. Common wearables are helmets, vests, knee wraps, back belts, and ankle or foot wraps. They also can contain coils that generate an electromagnetic field around your head. Which allows it to penetrate deeper into your brain and provide therapeutic benefits. Make sure it is comfortable enough for daily use and intended for use that fits your needs.
- 4. PEMF Stationary Devices – These are devices designed to be used in larger spaces such as a bed, room, or office building, emitting a pulsed electromagnetic field over the entire area for therapeutic benefits. The most common are used to go under your bed and are great for people looking to improve their sleeping.
More details on this topic PEMF device reviews
What are the Technical Characteristics of the PEMF Devices that you should know about?
When looking for what constitutes a good PEMF device, there are certain technical characteristics that you should be familiar with. PEMF devices use pulsed electromagnetic fields (PEMFs) to deliver energy directly into the body’s cells. These safe and painless waves can penetrate deep down into your tissues without any harmful side effects.
The main technical characteristics that most manufacturers highlight are:
- frequency
- waveform
- intensity.
I will discuss each of these characteristics in depth.
Is Frequency range important when looking at PEMF devices?
Yes, it is very important. The frequency of the pulsing EMFs used by perm mats is measured in Hertz (Hz). Most devices produce frequencies in the range of 8-20. They are designed to match the earth’s natural frequencies called Schumann resonances which are thought to be part of our body’s ability to self-heal.
There is been some research on finding the ideal frequency for certain conditions. For example, fractures are thought to be best treated for 20 minutes with 10-20 Hz. The formula for osteoporosis is 20 minutes at 8-19 Hz. Where musculoskeletal pain is best treated for 20 minutes at 10 Hz. And high blood pressure is best when treated at 1-5 Hz for 20-30 minutes. As you can see there is a slight variation in the treatment times and frequencies. But they are really similar. Most PEMF devices operate in this range,
What’s the best PEMF Waveform?
Believe it or not, this is somewhat of a controversial topic in this industry. There are a few manufacturers such as Bemer who focus a good part of their marketing on how their waveform is so much better. NASA was promoting a square wave as the best format for several years. But, in recent years many of the experts who specialized in magnetic device technology, feel that waveforms are not that important. Most waveforms are effective in providing good pulsed electromagnetic field therapy. So, I feel like finding the best waveform is one thing you don’t have to concern yourself with when looking for the best PEMF device for your home use.
How important is intensity level when choosing a PEMF device?
When choosing a PEMF device, the intensity level is an important factor to consider. The amount of magnetic field strength that the device can produce affects how effective it will be. Generally, the higher the intensity level, the more powerful and beneficial the effects of the PEMF device will be. The higher the intensity PEMF level is the deeper into the body therapy works. Since PEMFtherapy works at the cellular level. It is important that electromagnetic therapy reaches the right spots.
The lower intensity levels may be suitable for those with sensitive skin. Or those who just want a gentle treatment and primarily treat general wellness. Higher intensity levels are more suitable for people looking for deeper penetration and faster results. Ultimately, it is important to choose a PEMF device with an intensity level that best fits your needs and goals.
But you may be wondering how to distinguish a low-intensity from a higher-intensity device. Intensity is measured in Gauss. The range that many PEMF devices available bu today ranges from .0003 to 10. But there are some devices that have an intensity of over 1000 gauss. Many of these very high-intensity devices may be used in large areas or to treat animals such as horses.
I think that the best PEMF machine for the typical user who wants to treat muscle and joint pain or a chronic illness such as osteoporosis would have an intensity of 2 to 5 gauss. So if you are looking for a Bemer, iMRS Medithera, or QRS, you would not choose the right PEMF device. They are very low intensity. I am not saying therapy sessions using the devices will not work at all. If you choose the PEMF device that has 2-5 gauss intensity, it will much more quickly treat your pain and inflammation and the electromagnetic energy will reach the areas it needs to reach.
Beware of manufacturers such as Higher Dose that don’t publish their intensity specifications.
What should I look at looking at the controller of a PEMF device?
Some people think that the controller with more bells and whistles the better. They think they would like to change the frequency and intensity and PEMF parameters. But, I think for most people something easy to use and has a few PEMF settings I can choose from is much better. Another thing to consider when looking at the controller, be mindful of the warranty the PEMF manufacturers have on their controller. That will tell you how confident they are that it is a solid product.
What about PEMF coil type and size is that important when looking to buy a PEMF device?
I don’t think so. The type of coil will determine how much intensity of the magnetic field is used, as well as the range of frequencies that are available. Additionally, the size of the coil will also affect the amount of intensity and frequency range available. A larger coil will provide a greater intensity and range, while a smaller one will provide less intensity and range. Furthermore, coils with different shapes can be beneficial for certain applications.
The type of device you are looking at will somewhat determine the details of the coils. For example, a full-body mat will use quite a different configuration of coils compared to a portable PEMF device.
But at the end of the day, if you focus your attention on the intensity and frequency the PEMF device produces, you can ignore the details of the coils. Those two factors will help you choose the best PEMF for your home and clinical use.
Can I Test the device to see if the PEMF technology is working?
Yes, it depends on how sophisticated and expensive you want to get. There are Gauss meters that can be purchased to measure electromagnetic fields. But because PEMF uses pulsed fields it is a little more tricky to get accurate measurements. And to truly measure you could use an oscilloscope. This is not something most people can do. Years ago I had access to this type of equipment and was quite capable of capturing the waveform and intensity. But that has been years. But, do I really want to go to that effort?
Here is why I do this to show that my PEMF device is working. It is quite simple. I have a small clear container similar to a pill container you get from the pharmacy. And inside is a tiny metal object, a round bb used in a bb-gun. When this container gets near a pulsed magnetic field, the bb jumps around. My electrical engineering side of me is a little embarrassed to tell you I am using such a non-technical method. But it works and it is quick and cheap.
Considering the cost.
Many people go through life thinking that the most expensive product is the best. And this is certainly not true in PEMF devices. The Bemer is one of the most expensive mats on the market and yet it has one of the lowest intensities. So, don’t be fooled by the price, the best PEMF therapy devices may be the less expensive ones.
Can I Test the device?
Yes, most of the manufacturers of devices for PEMFtherapy offer a generous return policy. HealthyLine offers a free 90-day trial.
Should I consider the warranty?
Yes, the warranty may be one of the main differentiators to determine the best device for you. For example, Bemer offers only 6 months on their controller but Healthyline offers a 5-year warranty. Most traditional PEMF devices have a 1-year warranty.
What should I expect to pay for a powerful PEMF device?
Really good PEMF devices may cost less than $1000 for full-size mats and a smaller mat to be used in a chair is less than $550. And if you use the promo code lp10s when buying a HealthyLine mat you get another 10% off.
If you use this device every day the price per day value is so low. For example, let’s say the device lasts 5 years. The cost per day is 55 cents per day for full-size and 30 cents per day. Much less than paying for PEMF sessions. There are not many things in life that cost 30 cents per day that can improve your health and wellness as one of these devices.
Just One More Thing
One other suggestion to find the right device, I encourage you to look at purchasing a PEMF that has multiple therapy systems.
You should Ignore:
- Waveform – that marketing fluff
- Super high intensities devices – overkill
- Manufacturers that don’t publish all facts such as intensity.
If you follow these simple steps you will find the best PEMF device.
My Best PEMF Device Recommendation