Application of pulsed magnetic field therapy for humans and animals

In modern medicine and veterinary medicine, there is growing interest in alternative therapies that can promote natural healing processes and relieve pain. One such method is pulsed magnetic field therapy . This therapy uses magnetic fields to improve cellular function and stimulate healing processes in the body—in both humans and animals. It is particularly promising for the treatment of chronic pain, inflammation, and joint problems. But what exactly is behind this therapy, and how does it work? In this article, we take a detailed look at the effects and areas of application of pulsed magnetic field therapy .

What is pulsed magnetic field therapy?

Pulsed magnetic field therapy (PMFT) is based on the application of magnetic fields that are switched on and off at regular intervals. These pulses generate a magnetic field that can penetrate deep into the tissue. There, it stimulates cells to produce energy, promotes blood circulation, and can thus support healing. Studies have shown that magnetic field therapy can relieve pain and reduce inflammation by improving metabolism and cell regeneration. These effects make the therapy attractive for both humans and animals, as it works naturally and without side effects.

How Magnetic Field Therapy Works

Magnetic field therapy is based on the effect of electromagnetic fields that penetrate cells and stimulate various biochemical processes. The therapy is performed using devices that generate a pulsating magnetic field whose strength and frequency can be individually adjusted. These magnetic pulses produce the following effects:

  • Improvement of microcirculation: The magnetic field promotes blood circulation and oxygen transport in the tissue, which supports cell regeneration.
  • Stimulation of cell metabolism: The magnetic field makes the cell membranes more permeable, allowing nutrients to be absorbed more easily and waste products to be removed more quickly.
  • Anti-inflammatory and pain relief: Magnetic fields influence the production of anti-inflammatory messenger substances and can thus effectively relieve pain.

These mechanisms are well researched and proven by numerous studies. A study by Pawluk et al. (2013) shows that magnetic field therapy can significantly reduce the inflammatory symptoms of arthritis and improve mobility [ Pawluk et al., 2013 ].

Benefits of Magnetic Field Therapy for People

Pulsed magnetic field therapy is a gentle and non-invasive method for treating a wide range of conditions and illnesses. Key benefits include:

  • Pain relief: Therapy can provide relief from chronic pain conditions such as back pain, arthritis and fibromyalgia.
  • Promoting wound healing: Through improved blood circulation and increased oxygen transport, magnetic field therapy can accelerate the healing of wounds.
  • Supporting regeneration: Especially after injuries or operations, the therapy helps to promote the regeneration of muscle and nerve tissue.
  • Reduction of inflammation: The anti-inflammatory effect of the magnetic field can help with conditions such as arthritis or sports injuries.

A study by Weintraub et al. (2013) showed that magnetic field therapy resulted in a significant reduction in pain in patients with chronic neck pain [ Weintraub et al., 2013 ].

Magnetic field therapy for animals: dogs and horses

The use of magnetic field therapy is no longer limited to humans. The method is increasingly being used in veterinary medicine, especially for dogs and horses. Animal owners and veterinarians appreciate the pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effects of the therapy, which does not require medication. The most common areas of application for magnetic field therapy in animals are:

  • Joint problems: Dogs and horses often suffer from arthritis or hip dysplasia. Magnetic field therapy relieves pain and improves mobility.
  • Injuries and inflammation: In the case of sports injuries, tendonitis or muscle pain, therapy can support healing and reduce pain.
  • Postoperative regeneration: After operations, magnetic field therapy helps to accelerate wound healing and reduce swelling.
  • Stress relief and relaxation: Magnetic fields have a calming and relaxing effect, which can be helpful for nervous or stressed animals.

A study by Ernst et al. (2014) showed that in dogs with hip dysplasia, treatment with pulsed magnetic field therapy led to a significant reduction in pain and improvement in mobility [ Ernst et al., 2014 ].

How is magnetic field therapy performed on animals?

Magnetic field therapy for animals is performed using special mats or blankets that generate the magnetic field and can be adjusted to the individual animal. The therapy is completely painless and requires no sedation or special preparation. Many animals find the therapy pleasant and relaxing and can be treated without difficulty. The therapy can be performed both in the veterinarian’s office and at home under supervision, which is advantageous for continuous treatment.

Is magnetic field therapy suitable for all animals?

Although magnetic field therapy is generally very well tolerated, there are some limitations. In the case of animals with pacemakers, tumors or certain infections, the application should be discussed in detail with the veterinarian beforehand. Caution is also advised in the case of pregnant animals. It is therefore important to obtain an accurate diagnosis and assessment from an experienced veterinarian or physiotherapist before treatment.

Scientific Evidence and Effectiveness of Magnetic Field Therapy

The effectiveness of magnetic field therapy has been proven by numerous scientific studies. In humans, the therapy demonstrates positive effects in the treatment of chronic pain and wound healing. A comprehensive review by Markov (2007) confirms the anti-inflammatory and healing-promoting properties of pulsed magnetic fields in both acute and chronic conditions [ Markov, 2007 ].

Successes have also been documented in veterinary medicine. A study by Gunn-Moore and Simpson (2010) reported significant improvements in mobility and a reduction in pain sensitivity in horses with joint problems [ Gunn-Moore & Simpson, 2010 ].

Conclusion: Magnetic field therapy as a natural healing method for humans and animals

Pulsating magnetic field therapy offers a gentle method with few side effects for relieving pain and promoting healing, which is widely used in both humans and animals. The therapy is a valuable alternative, particularly for chronic pain, inflammation and joint problems, and does not require medication or invasive procedures. Thanks to scientific evidence and the positive experiences of many patients and animal owners, magnetic field therapy has the potential to play a key role in modern pain therapy and wound healing.