Effects of PEMF (pulsed electromagnetic field) stimulation on chronic pain and anxiety utilizing decreased treatment frequency and duration application
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1
Life University, United States
BACKGROUND:
Pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) stimulation promotes the motion of ions and electrolytes, which in turn stimulates cellular activity. According to previous studies, PEMF cellular stimulation improves the cells ability to generate energy, and improves oxygenation, cell metabolism and circulation. Improved lymphatic flow and drainage are also noted.
The recommended application of PEMF varies from one hour, for an average of 20 sessions for chronic conditions, to sixteen minute daily sessions for health maintenance, according to multiple manufacturers. The purpose of this study is to observe if twenty minute sessions, given twice a week, for a total of twelve sessions would have an effect on chronic pain and/ or anxiety.
METHODS:
Ten patients were scheduled for twelve PEMF sessions, twice weekly. The Pulse XL ProTM was used to apply the PEMF. The treatments were given in the clinic of a chiropractic university. The first sessions were exploratory to determine the areas with the greatest sensitivity, and the most comfortable frequencies. Protocols were set with frequencies between 1.5 and 7.8, and the intensity was set to the patient’s comfortable tolerance.
Pre- and post-outcome assessment questionnaires were given to the patients to fill out. These included the Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAM-A), Brief Pain Index (BPI), BPI 2 which scored function, and Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9).
The study extended for many participants from 6 weeks to 9 weeks due to inclement weather, clinic closures and personal reasons. Two people were going through very stressful/ emotional events during the study, which may have affected their post scores.
RESULTS:
Nine subjects were female, one was male. Their ages ranged from 20 to 56 years of age (average age was 33). Average chronicity of pain was 8 years. Two people didn’t answer question correctly.
Scores for the Outcome Assessment Questionnaires are documented on the enclosed table. Six participants noted temporary relief or decreased frequency of pain. Eight participants noted a decrease in pain overall, with three of them noting pain as “much better”. One subject stated no change in pain levels or frequency. HAM-A scores improved for all except 1. Seven out of 10 PHQ-9 scores demonstrated improvements. Nine out of thirteen BPI2 scores improved and 10 out of 13 BPI scores showed improvement. When viewed in aggregate, average and percentage pre-post change scores all demonstrated a reduction, in spite of the fact that changes showed increases for some scores by individual. (see other attached table)
Incidental results included increased ranges of motion, deeper more restful sleep, more energy, improved mental clarity, energy boost during workouts, better mood, relaxed vocal cords,
CONCLUSIONS:
The pain index scores alone were not representative of improvement for all individuals, but did show improvement when viewed in aggregate. Viewed this way, we can more accurately see the patient’s change in perspective of their overall health, anxiety and function.
Twelve PEMF sessions at twice per week intervals and twenty minutes duration, may benefit some people with chronic pain and anxiety. Further investigation of PEMF stimulation on people with chronic pain and anxiety is warranted. Future studies with increased frequency of PEMF stimulation and / or increased session times would be valuable as a comparison study.
Keywords:
Pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF),
Chronic Pain,
Anxiety,
Sleep,
Cellular stimulation
Conference:
International Symposium on Clinical Neuroscience, Orlando, United States, 24 May - 26 May, 2019.
Presentation Type:
Poster Presentation
Topic:
Clinical Neuroscience
Citation:
Borges
B,
Hosek
R and
Esposito
S
(2019). Effects of PEMF (pulsed electromagnetic field) stimulation on chronic pain and anxiety utilizing decreased treatment frequency and duration application.
Front. Neurol.
Conference Abstract:
International Symposium on Clinical Neuroscience.
doi: 10.3389/conf.fneur.2019.62.00007
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Received:
01 Apr 2019;
Published Online:
27 Sep 2019.
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Correspondence:
Dr. Beatrice Borges, Life University, Marietta, United States, Bborges0915@gmail.com