Bring Comfort And Joy Back To Your Dog With PEMF Therapy

As dog owners, we always look for ways to help our furry friends live their best lives. With the growing popularity of PEMF therapy, many pet parents are finding a safe, effective alternative to relieve their pets' pain without medication or surgery. Can PEMF therapy also bring comfort and joy back to your family’s best buddy?

🐾 Here's a quick rundown of the blog post:

🐾 What is PEMF?

PEMF stands for pulsed electromagnetic field therapy. A pulsed electromagnetic field combines electric and magnetic fields.

An electric field surrounds a stationary electrically charged particle. In human biology, electric fields are measured by electrocardiograms (EKG), tracking electrical impulses in the heart.
As the Earth spins, its iron core generates a magnetic field, which shields us from solar flares and wind.

Combining electric and magnetic fields produces an electromagnetic field, a fundamental force of nature essential for life alongside gravity. Electromagnetic fields have characteristics such as frequencies, waveforms, amplitudes, and intensities. The Earth's natural electromagnetic field emits frequencies between 1 to 30 Hertz, with Hertz measuring frequency in pulses per second.

Static Magnets vs. PEMF Fields

We know magnets have been used for healing since Roman and Greek times. Static magnets create a constant magnetic field, while PEMF therapy uses pulsed electromagnetic fields to drive the field deeper into tissue than static magnets can. This deeper penetration enhances cellular repair and regeneration more effectively.

Differences Between Therapeutic PEMF and Harmful Electromagnetic Fields (EMF)

There are different EMF sources: low (appliances), intermediate (computer screens), and high (mobile phones, microwaves). Frequency plays a role in defining the safety and effectiveness of EMFs.

High frequencies from devices are far from natural frequencies, causing potential interference. Therapeutic PEMF devices operate under 100 Hertz, aligning with natural frequencies. PEMF for therapeutic use is very different from man-made electromagnetic fields. [1]

🐾 The Science Behind PEMF Therapy

Body’s Cellular Electromagnetics

Cells in the body have a magnetic field influenced by EMFs from various sources. These cells communicate through electrical signals. Healthy cells have a defined voltage, similar to a fully charged battery, with a normal membrane resting potential between -30 to -90 millivolts.

Damaged cells disrupt normal functions, causing inflammation, reduced circulation, and impaired cellular respiration.

Enhancing Body's Cellular Function

PEMF therapy influences biology through complex mechanisms that are actively researched [2]:

Amplification of Natural Electromagnetic Fields: PEMF amplifies natural electromagnetic fields, counteracting artificial frequencies from technology. It enhances the body's natural electromagnetic environment, supporting overall health and well-being.
Cellular Signaling: PEMF recharges cells, restoring their normal function and enhancing the body's natural healing process. This impacts cell signaling, potentially influencing brain activity and alleviating anxiety and depression.
Oxygenation and Circulation: PEMF increases oxygenation and enhances circulation by normalizing cell membranes and influencing iron in the blood. This process helps push iron, leading to better blood flow and oxygenation throughout the body.
Biological Mechanisms: PEMF triggers increased calcium ion signaling in targeted and non-targeted devices, activating pathways related to metabolism, inflammation, and tissue repair. It also promotes the production of nitric oxide through enzymes like nitric oxide synthase, aiding in reducing inflammation and improving blood flow.
Heat Shock Proteins: PEMF treatment induces heat shock proteins, which help cells cope with stress and promote their survival. These proteins play a crucial role in maintaining cellular health and resilience.
Adenosine Receptors: PEMF therapy increases the presence of adenosine receptors on cell membranes. These receptors respond to adenosine signals, which can help reduce levels of inflammatory substances like cytokines and prostaglandins. This mechanism potentially alleviates pain and inflammation, enhancing the therapeutic benefits of PEMF therapy.

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🐾 PEMF therapy

The effectiveness of PEMF therapy hinges on its waveforms, frequency, and intensity, which dictate the conditions targeted and the therapy's overall impact.

Waveforms

PEMF utilizes electromagnetic waveforms tailored to treat various tissues. These waveforms vary in shape, strength, and frequency based on the device used, influencing the safety and effectiveness of the therapy.

For instance, devices like bone growth stimulators emit specific waveforms designed to heal fractures, while others target pain and inflammation with distinct waveform characteristics.

Frequency

Different frequencies in PEMF therapy influence biological responses by altering oscillation rates. Lower frequencies penetrate deeper, making them suitable for musculoskeletal issues, while higher frequencies are ideal for neurological conditions and superficial tissue treatments.

Intensity

PEMF device intensity, measured in Gauss, determines its therapeutic reach. Portable devices typically operate under 100 Gauss, providing general wellness benefits. In contrast, high-intensity machines exceed 1000 Gauss, penetrating deeper tissues for conditions like persistent pain and injuries.

However, these high-intensity devices require expert supervision due to their potency and are typically used in clinical settings rather than at home.

Blog post: How Can You Help Your Dog With Arthritis? Essential Tips And Advice

🐾 Benefits of PEMF Therapy for your dog

PEMF benefits include increased cell proliferation, collagen formation, reduced inflammation, and improved circulation. It also aids in muscle regeneration, reduces atrophy, and can be used pre- and post-exercise. The effect of the therapy leads to relaxation in humans and animals. Unlike pain medications, PEMF therapy has no significant side effects.

While PEMF can enhance performance, it can't replace essential nutrients. Addressing underlying issues like overweight, injury, or metabolic problems is crucial, especially when age-related factors come into play.

Consider PEMF as a warming up on a cellular level, increasing oxygen in the blood and enhancing performance. Because PEMF has a distinctive role in reducing inflammation and protecting joints it can treat conditions such as soft tissue injuries, osteoarthritis, inflammatory arthritis, neurological conditions, fractures, inflammation and pain. You can also use PEMF to warm up older dogs before a walk.

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🐾 PEMF Research

Clinical evidence supports PEMF therapy for bone healing, wound healing, osteoarthritis, inflammation, and post-operative pain and edema in both animals and humans. Despite some confusion about the use of PEMF for clinical treatment, veterinarians are increasingly prescribing PEMF [3].

Bone Healing

PEMF therapy, originally designed for non-union fractures (the body's inability to heal a fracture), is now widely used in orthopedic settings for conditions like spinal fusion and congenital pseudarthrosis [4]. These therapies, such as the Bone Growth Stimulator (BGS), involve long-term daily treatments that slowly deliver energy to tissues.

Despite this gradual process, clinical trials have consistently shown benefits, including reduced pain and lower risk of fracture non-union. Research indicates PEMF's potential alongside other electrotherapies in enhancing bone healing, though functional outcomes require further exploration [5].

In veterinary studies, PEMF treatment has demonstrated significant benefits for conditions like Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease in dogs [6], showing promise as a non-invasive alternative to surgery [7].

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Osteoarthritis

Clinical trials have highlighted PEMF's efficacy in managing osteoarthritis, showing improvements in pain and function. For instance, targeted PEMF devices have been particularly effective in reducing pain intensity compared to non-targeted counterparts, owing to their stronger electric fields. [8]

In veterinary medicine, PEMF therapy has similarly shown promise in alleviating osteoarthritis symptoms in dogs, outperforming conventional drug treatments in some studies. [9]

Inflammation, Pain, and Edema

PEMF therapies have been effective in reducing inflammation, pain, and swelling, following surgeries such as breast augmentation and mastectomy. Studies have demonstrated significant reductions in pain scores and opioid use with targeted PEMF therapy, highlighting its potential in post-operative care [10].

In veterinary trials, targeted PEMF treatment has aided in reducing pain and inflammation in dogs undergoing spinal decompression surgery [11], showcasing its utility in managing acute conditions [12].

Soft Tissue Wound Healing

PEMF therapy has accelerated the healing of chronic wounds like diabetic ulcers, primarily by enhancing vascular function and tissue oxygenation. Clinical trials have shown PEMF's ability to promote vascular growth and improve wound closure rates significantly [13].

In animal studies, PEMF treatment has successfully supported tissue flap survival and enhanced vascularization, underscoring its potential in veterinary wound care [14].

Psychiatric & Neurological Disorders

Preliminary studies suggest that PEMF therapy could address unmet needs in psychiatric and neurological disorders, including stroke and Alzheimer's disease. Research in animals and early human trials indicate PEMF's ability to promote healing and reduce inflammation in brain tissues, offering potential therapeutic benefits.

In veterinary medicine, PEMF therapy holds promise for managing mood and behavioral disorders in animals, though further research is needed to validate these findings [15].

symptom-of-dog-arthritis-increased-sleeping-or-lethargy

🐾 PEMF safety

PEMF has been approved by the FDA since the 1970s for treating nonunion bone fractures and stimulating bone growth. Since then, a number of other applications have been added, such as PEMF therapy for urinary incontinence and muscle stimulation (1998) and more recently it has been cleared as adjunctive treatment of postoperative pain (2019).

Extensive research, backed by over more than 1000 peer-reviewed studies, consistently shows that PEMF devices, in use since the late 1990s, do not cause adverse health effects. Millions of treatments have been delivered without significant side effects, as confirmed by comprehensive clinical reviews. [16]

However, there are some contradictions about the use of PEMF during pregnancy and on tumors (due to a lack of research). Although there is currently some interesting research on PEMF potentially fighting cancer, it isn’t enough to make definitive recommendations [17].

It is also advised to be cautious with regular use in young animals due to their unformed growth plates, to prevent disruption of natural growth processes. However, occasional use, such as 2-3 times, for managing inflammation and pain is generally considered safe.

It is also recommended to consult a veterinarian for conditions such as Cushing's disease and insulin resistance before deploying PEMF.

Finally, for fractures, it is wise to wait until they have straightened before using PEMF to avoid healing misalignment.

Petspemf Pad Reviews For Dog Health And Well-being

🐾 PEMF Home applications

When starting at home, it is recommended that you start with a cheaper PEMF device for personal use so that you and your dog can explore PEMF. As already mentioned, it may not offer all the functionality you need. On the other hand, it is easier to use.

There are also options to rent PEMF devices to try before purchasing. Before purchasing a device and starting a new therapy, it is advisable to consult your veterinarian.

With some home appliances the frequency and intensity can be changed. Where frequency refers to pulses per second. It is important to choose the right device based on the specific needs and circumstances.

PEMF therapy devices for dogs come in various forms and price ranges.

Loops and small pads: Compact and portable, ideal for targeting specific areas. Prices range from $150 to $2,300.
Mats (or pads): Provide full-body treatment, great for larger dogs or general wellness. Prices vary from $300 to $2,600.
Dog Jackets: Wearable therapy for mobility and joint health, typically costing around $400 to $1,700.

As you can see, the prices of PEMF devices for dogs vary considerably. This is due to several factors, such as:

Reputable brands often command higher prices due to their established reliability, research, and advanced technology.
Devices with adjustable intensity and frequency settings tend to be more expensive. These features allow for tailored treatments specific to a dog's health issues, making them more versatile and effective.
Larger devices, such as full-body mats or beds, are generally more costly than smaller, targeted PEMF loops or handheld devices. The size affects the treatment area and the overall cost of materials and manufacturing.
Advanced features like programmable sessions, longer battery life, portability, and user-friendly interfaces can also influence the price. More sophisticated devices with better therapeutic options are typically more expensive.

🐾 Combining PEMF with other treatments

Lifestyle

It is often not just the PEMF treatment that contributes to the pain relief and recovery of your dog. Adjustments to your dog's lifestyle, such as diet and exercise, also contribute.

Medications

There are no known contradictions, but it is always good to consult your doctor or a PEMF expert if you have any doubts about the combination of PEMF and the medication that your dog is receiving.

Other (alternative) therapies

Practitioners often use the following therapies concurrently with PEMF on dogs:

Acupuncture (or acupressure)

Integrating PEMF therapy with acupuncture boosts therapeutic effects by promoting cellular healing and tissue regeneration. The therapy can complement acupuncture by increasing blood flow, reducing inflammation, and improving overall treatment outcomes. For dogs unable to tolerate needles, acupressure applies pressure to these same points, achieving similar therapeutic benefits.

Massage

PEMF therapy during massage can deepen relaxation and promote faster muscle recovery.

Red Light Therapy (aka Low-Level Laser Therapy)

RLT and PEMF work through different biochemical mechanisms, so there are no contraindications when used together.

RLT primarily enhances blood flow and stimulates cellular processes, making it particularly beneficial for muscle recovery and reducing inflammation.
PEMF therapy, on the other hand, penetrates deeper to influence cellular activity and tissue regeneration. It shows promise in managing pain and improving mobility, especially in cases of osteoarthritis.

Together, RLT and PEMF therapy can offer synergistic benefits, enhancing overall health and well-being for your pet.

🐾 How to choose the right PEMF Device for your dog

Size: Various Pulse PEMF devices cater to different pet sizes, ensuring suitability from small companions to larger breeds.
Type: Select the type of device based on your dog's specific needs and the condition being treated.
Ease of Use: Prioritize devices that are straightforward to operate and ensure comfort for your pet.
Intensity and Frequency: Look for devices that offer scientifically confirmed intensities and frequencies to tailor the therapy to your dog's specific needs.

🐾 Getting started

Treatment Frequency and Duration

Although the optimal frequency and duration of PEMF treatments is depending on the individual requirements, here’s some advice to get a quick start:

Begin slowly by introducing PEMF therapy gradually. Start with short sessions of 5-10 minutes and watch how your pet reacts. Increase the duration as your pet gets used to it.
Make PEMF therapy enjoyable for your pet. Use their favorite blanket or bed during sessions and give them praise and affection. This helps them associate PEMF therapy with relaxation and comfort.
For best results, keep PEMF therapy sessions consistent. It is recommended starting with 3-5 treatments per week and adjusting based on the condition and device intensity. For maintenance, two days a week may suffice for chronic conditions; acute issues may need daily treatment until healed. But whether it's every day, every other day, twice a week, find a routine that suits you and your pet.

Monitoring your pet’s health

Keep a diary to see if PEMF therapy is working. Check to see if they are more active or show renewed interest in walks and playtime. Notice if they seem less stiff or painful. Note any signs of increased mobility, energy, or playfulness.

Dog can’t sit still during therapy

Here are some practical tips.

Pre-session exercise
Shorter session lengths
Take breaks

🐾 Expert insights & Personal stories

Wendy claytor’s Story

Jim and Bee from Modern Canine interview people who have turned their love for pets into a career or lifestyle. They interviewed Wendy Claytor of Pulseworx. Wendy’s journey with PEMF therapy began out of necessity. [18]

At a horse show, she experienced debilitating back pain. Someone recommended she try PEMF therapy from a practitioner in the barn. Desperate for relief, she gave it a shot. "She worked on me for about 30, 40 minutes, and I walked out of the barn fine and went and rode my horse," Wendy recalls. This immediate relief sparked her curiosity and eventual passion for PEMF therapy.

Wendy's experiences with her animals further solidified her belief in PEMF therapy. She shares a notable example with her horse: "I had my horse pulsed, and it was a different animal. The thing with animals is there's no placebo effect. They don't pretend they don't feel well." This objective response in animals convinced Wendy of PEMF's efficacy.

Her passion for the technology led her to help others. Wendy now uses PEMF therapy to treat various conditions in dogs, such as hip dysplasia and ACL issues. She shares, "I just had a dachshund here the other day, and it's crazy because what it's doing is it's naturally going in there and allowing the body to heal itself."

Wendy's dedication is evident as she balances treating animals and educating owners. She remarks, "I'll come up and have clients' dogs waiting at the door for me because they're so excited. They lay on the mat, roll over, and do whatever they need to do to get it into those areas. It's truly amazing."

For Wendy, PEMF therapy is more than a business; it's a lifestyle intertwined with her love for animals. "I have four dogs and two horses, and it really became a passion. I wanted to do something that brought me around doing what I love to do," she says.

Integrating PEMF Therapy into a Veterinary Practice

NewMedLTD's PEMF Podcast Series recently spoke with Hayley Telling, Veterinary Nurse and Galen Myotherapist, about her experience using PEMF therapy in her practice [19]. Hayley, who is also an international championship dog agility handler, emphasized the benefits of PEMF therapy for animals: “PEMFs are applied externally, passing through the body to stimulate cells, much like they do in humans. Many professionals in animal care, like myself, integrate PEMF therapy with other treatments because it complements them effectively.”

Hayley's expertise in musculoskeletal health, bolstered by her qualifications and experience, led her to incorporate PEMF therapy into her practice. Reflecting on its impact, she noted: “Using PEMF therapy has significantly reduced recovery times for our agility dogs, whether recovering from injury or intense exercise. I've observed that dogs in discomfort become more relaxed and receptive to hands-on treatment following PEMF therapy.”

When asked if she would recommend PEMF therapy to others, Hayley enthusiastically replied: “I would absolutely recommend PEMF therapy to others for themselves and their pets.”

PEMF Therapy for Pet Rehabilitation

Dr. Mary Gardner, founder of Lap of Love, met online Dr. Leilani Alvarez, from the Animal Medical Center (AMC). They discussed non-pharmaceutical treatments for pets, focusing on electromagnetic field therapy [20].

Dr. Alvarez is head of the Integrative and Rehabilitative Medicine department at AMC. She manages a dedicated team specializing in veterinary sports medicine and rehabilitation. AMC, often compared to Johns Hopkins or Mayo Clinic for human medicine, has a rich history dating back to 1910.

They use PEMF therapy for pet rehabilitation. Dr. Alvarez explained, "It’s not magic; it’s based on real science. This technology has been around for over a century and has evolved significantly." Dr. Alvarez conducted a clinical trial using the Assisi Loop device on dogs with intervertebral disc disease. She noted, "53 dogs completed the study, and the results showed significant improvements in those treated with the real PEMF device compared to the sham device."

She states that PEMF therapy is especially beneficial for conditions like post-surgery recovery, soft tissue injuries, and inflammation. Dr. Alvarez shared, "I've seen amazing success cases, including dogs with acute allergic reactions and severe inflammation." She continues, “PEMF therapy is very effective for reducing pain and inflammation, supporting treatments for conditions like arthritis, bulging discs, and even cognitive dysfunction in pets. However, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian before starting the therapy, especially when your pet has a pacemaker or tumor.”

For pet owners seeking non-pharmaceutical options, PEMF therapy is a valuable addition to veterinary care. Dr. Alvarez highlights, "It’s a safe and effective modality, particularly when used in conjunction with other treatments."

🐾 Final thoughts

PEMF therapy for dogs is a promising alternative for pain management and recovery. Home PEMF applications, known for safety and affordability, support healing and reduce reliance on medications. They may not have the intensity of the devices used by specialized PEMF practitioners, but they do provide a way to get this therapy for your dog in the comfort of your home.

You can use PEMF as a standalone or complementary therapy. Do keep in mind that PEMF therapy can’t replace veterinary care. It is a complementary therapy, meant to be used alongside traditional care. So, always consult with your veterinarian for any health concerns your pet may have.

Ready to see how PEMF mats can benefit your dog? Take the first step by checking out our detailed reviews and find the perfect PEMF mat to make your dog happier and healthier.

Sam Everhart

References

1. Webinars with Wendy, Lisa Miksis- What is PEMF and how does it work? SURE FOOT Equine Stability Program®, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-q5tVOk4aSY

2. Flatscher J, Pavez Loriè E, Mittermayr R, Meznik P, Slezak P, Redl H, Slezak C. Pulsed Electromagnetic Fields (PEMF)-Physiological Response and Its Potential in Trauma Treatment. Int J Mol Sci. 2023 Jul 8;24(14):11239. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10379303/

3. James S. Gaynor, et al., Veterinary applications of pulsed electromagnetic field therapy, Research in Veterinary Science, Volume 119, 2018, Pages 1-8, ISSN 0034-5288, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S003452881830208X

4. Agrawal U, Tiwari V. Congenital Tibial Pseudarthrosis. [Updated 2023 Aug 3]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK576443/

5. Aleem IS, et al., Efficacy of Electrical Stimulators for Bone Healing: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Sham-Controlled Trials. Sci Rep. 2016 Aug 19;6:31724. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4990885/

6. Krista Williams, Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease, VCA Animal Hospitals, https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/necrosis-of-the-femoral-head-in-dogs

7. S. Pinna et al., The Effects of Pulsed Electromagnetic Field in the Treatment of Osteoarthritis in Dogs: Clinical Study. In: Pakistan Veterinary Journal 33(1): 96 100. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/286970651_The_Effects_of_Pulsed_Electromagnetic_Field_in_the_Treatment_of_Osteoarthritis_in_Dogs_Clinical_Study

8. Nelson FR, Zvirbulis R, Pilla AA. Non-invasive electromagnetic field therapy produces rapid and substantial pain reduction in early knee osteoarthritis: a randomized double-blind pilot study. Rheumatol Int. 2013 Aug;33(8):2169-73. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22451021/

9. Sullivan MO, t al., Randomized, controlled clinical trial evaluating the efficacy of pulsed signal therapy in dogs with osteoarthritis. Vet Surg. 2013 Apr;42(3):250-4. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23278629/

10. Rohde CH, et al., Pulsed Electromagnetic Fields Reduce Postoperative Interleukin-1β, Pain, and Inflammation: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study in TRAM Flap Breast Reconstruction Patients. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2015 May;135(5):808e-817e. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25919263/

11. Dogwoodreferrals.com, What is a hemilaminectomy? https://www.dogwoodreferrals.co.uk/our-services/veterinary-neurosurgery-neurology/hemilaminectomy

12. Zidan N, et al., The Effect of Electromagnetic Fields on Post-Operative Pain and Locomotor Recovery in Dogs with Acute, Severe Thoracolumbar Intervertebral Disc Extrusion: A Randomized Placebo-Controlled, Prospective Clinical Trial. J Neurotrauma. 2018 Aug 1;35(15):1726-1736. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29310504/

13. Weber RV, et al., Strauch B. Pulsed magnetic fields applied to a transferred arterial loop support the rat groin composite flap. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2004 Oct;114(5):1185-9, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15457032/

14. Roland D, et al., Effects of pulsed magnetic energy on a microsurgically transferred vessel. Plast Reconstr Surg. 2000 Apr;105(4):1371-4, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10744227/

15. Rasouli J, et al., Attenuation of interleukin-1beta by pulsed electromagnetic fields after traumatic brain injury. Neurosci Lett. 2012 Jun 21;519(1):4-8, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22503903/

16. Guo L, et al., Meta-analysis of clinical efficacy of pulsed radio frequency energy treatment. Ann Surg. 2012 Mar;255(3):457-67, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22301609/

17. Pantelis P, et al., Pulsed Electromagnetic Fields (PEMFs) Trigger Cell Death and Senescence in Cancer Cells. Int J Mol Sci. 2024 Feb 20;25(5):2473, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10931548/

18. Jim and Bee, Cellular Exercise with PEMF Therapy for Pets, Modern Canine, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zStRbfELNCw

19. NewMedLTD's PEMF Podcast Series, Hayley Telling, Veterinary Nurse and Galen Myotherapist, https://open.spotify.com/episode/66lOOgOPPzA4pK6nWOy1uI?si=ab20954cd339423f&nd=1&dlsi=4426d819e78e4aa2

20. Dr. Mary Gardner, Lap of Love, Lap of Love is a network of veterinarians around the USA. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-GwojU_PXss