We are very excited to introduce the newest piece of technology at Mile High Spine and Sport: Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy (PEMF). We are constantly seeking the newest evidence-based technologies to help our patients heal quicker and get back to doing the things they love.
Why PEMF? The FDA Backing
PEMF technology has a robust history. It first gained FDA clearance in 1979 for helping to heal non-union bone fractures (fractures that failed to heal naturally).
Since then, scientific research and clinical applications have expanded significantly. PEMF is now used to treat:
- Chronic Pain & Inflammation: Including arthritis in the spine, shoulders, knees, and hips.
- Tissue Regeneration: Addressing chronic and acute pain, tendon injuries, and scar tissue.
- Neuropathy: Helping with nerve pain and loss of nerve function.
- Post-Surgical Recovery: Decreasing swelling and inflammation immediately following procedures.
- Neurological Support: Including mood enhancement when applied transcranially (Transcranial PEMF).
How Does PEMF Work? The Cellular Mechanism
PEMF therapy works not by heating tissue, but by delivering gentle, low-frequency magnetic pulses that pass entirely through the body to recharge damaged cells.
- Restoring Cell Potential: Every healthy cell has an optimal electrical charge called a membrane potential. Injury, inflammation, and chronic illness cause this charge to drop. PEMF restores the ideal charge, optimizing the cell’s ability to absorb nutrients and detoxify waste products.
- Reducing Inflammation & Oxidative Stress: The restored cellular function triggers the release of anti-inflammatory mediators. It directly reduces the harmful free radicals that drive joint damage and chronic inflammation.
- Enhancing Circulation: The magnetic field also supports the creation of nitric oxide (NO), which increases blood flow and microcirculation to the targeted area, accelerating tissue repair.
What Does PEMF Feel Like?
PEMF can be applied either locally to a specific joint or globally using a full-body mat.
When applied locally to the precise area of pain, patients may notice a gentle tingling or pulsating sensation and a light muscle contraction. When applied globally by lying on the mat, patients will get a similar feeling throughout the entire body, and immediately note a profound feeling of relaxation and recovery. We often see patients arrive feeling burned out, overtrained, and weighed down by stress. They consistently report feeling completely re-energized, calm, and back to normal immediately following a full-body PEMF session.
How Quickly Will I Notice Results?
Many patients notice immediate results after a PEMF treatment. Some of the most common reports we hear are:
- Feeling refreshed and rejuvenated following a full-body session.
- Experiencing decreased brain fog and better mental clarity.
- Patients with chronic gut issues report better gut function and bowel movements the day after a treatment.
As with any non-invasive therapy, consistency is key for getting lasting results. While improvements are often seen after a single session, we typically recommend an initial treatment plan of twice per week for 3–4 weeks, followed by a maintenance plan to sustain results and maximize long-term healing.
Ready to Experience Cellular Healing?
If you are struggling with chronic joint pain, post-surgical recovery, or unresolved inflammation, call Mile High Spine and Sport today to schedule your consultation and see if PEMF is right for you.
Post written by Dr. Riley Kulm, DC. Check out his bio here.
