What is PEMF therapy?

PEMF stands for pulsed electromagnetic field. At Chudleigh Health Hub we deliver it with a PMST (Pulsed Magnetic Super Transducer), alongside osteopathic treatment and exercise, where we think it may help. We’ll always explain why we’re suggesting it.

What is it?

PEMF therapy uses a device that produces short pulses of a magnetic field. The pulses pass through clothing and skin into the tissues underneath. Your body is not exposed to anything you can feel as heat, and nothing touches you apart from the applicator.

What does a session feel like?

• You stay clothed and sit or lie comfortably.
• The applicator is placed over the area being treated.
• Most people feel a gentle tapping or pulsing sensation, or nothing at all.
• It doesn’t hurt, and there are no needles.

What does the research say?

PEMF is used in some hospitals to help certain bone fractures that are slow to heal. For muscle and joint pain, the research is more mixed: some studies have found benefits for pain and recovery, while others have not, and more high-quality research is needed.

That’s why we don’t offer PEMF on its own or as a cure. We see it as one tool that some patients find helpful, used alongside the treatments with the strongest evidence: hands-on care, exercise and advice.

Who shouldn’t have PEMF?

Please tell us before your session if you:

• have a pacemaker or any other implanted electronic device
• are pregnant
• have epilepsy
• have cancer, or are having treatment for cancer
• have any metal implants near the area being treated

If you’re unsure, ask us. We’ll only use it when it’s suitable for you.

How we use it

We may suggest PEMF as part of an osteopathy or physiotherapy appointment, and it’s one of the supervised recovery options in our Complete Overhaul longevity package, alongside compression boots and red and near-infrared light. Read about red and near-infrared light therapy.