Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy

Step into the future. Arcata Animal Hospital welcoming pets and families to expert veterinary care in Arcata, CA

What is PEMF?
 PEMF (Pulsed Electromagnetic Therapy) is a dynamic form of energy that is composed of both magnetic and electrical fields. The electromagnetic fields transfer energy and regulate the biological behavior of cells to promote healing. It is a non-invasive, non-painful form of therapy. It is best to use PEMF along with other rehabilitation modalities vs relying on it as a standalone therapy.

The FDA has approved PEMF in humans to treat non-union fractures and has also cleared PEMF to treat post-operative pain, edema, osteoarthritis, plantar fasciitis and chronic wounds. Compassionate end-of-life veterinary care for pets at Arcata Animal Hospital in Arcata, CA PEMF pulsed electromagnetic field therapy for pet pain relief at Arcata Animal Hospital

How does it work? The exact mechanism of how PEMF works is not defined. It is suspected to have more of an electric vs magnetic effect on the tissues. It is suspected PEMF affects calcium binding to certain molecules that result in changes in cell membranes and metabolic activities. These changes reduce the production of free radicals which are damaging to cells, reduce inflammatory mediators, increase the production of proteins that protect cells and reduce cell death and upregulate biologic processes related to osteogenesis (which is the production of new bone). PEMF may also temporarily alter the electrical charges across cellular membranes in such a manner that the difference in electrical charge from the inside to the outside is optimized for healing processes. Compassionate end-of-life veterinary care for pets at Arcata Animal Hospital in Arcata, CA PEMF therapy device used for veterinary rehabilitation and pain management in pets

What conditions are treated by PEMF?

There is clinical evidence that PEMF reduces pain, inflammation and edema. It promotes bone healing, improves tissue perfusion, oxygenation and wound healing. Conditions that may benefit from PEMF include:

  • Arthritis
  • Neck and back pain
  • Post-operative inflammation, pain and edema
  • Post-laminectomy (back surgery)

  • Fracture Healing
  • Chronic Wounds (pressure sores)
  • Separation Anxiety
  • Stroke, traumatic brain injury

  • Arthritis
  • Neck and back pain
  • Post-operative inflammation, pain and edema
  • Post-laminectomy (back surgery)
  • Fracture Healing
  • Chronic Wounds (pressure sores)
  • Separation Anxiety
  • Stroke, traumatic brain injury

Can I do this at home? Yes. There are a variety of devices you can use at home. PEMF works best in conjunction with other modalities vs being used alone. It is an excellent adjunct to other therapies. We recommend the Assisi Loop. Ideally PEMF should be done 2-3 times a day for the prescribed time frame. Pulsed electromagnetic field therapy (PEMF) administered to a pet at Arcata Animal Hospital