Many people think that static magnet therapy and pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) therapy are one and the same. However, they are actually quite different. Static magnet therapy is an alternative healing practice, as is PEMF therapy. However, as the name suggests, static magnet therapy uses non-moving magnetic fields to induce healing. On the other hand, EMF therapy uses low frequency electromagnetic fields. They move through space away from the source to penetrate deeply into the body.
Both static magnets and pulsed electromagnetic fields have each been used to heal the body for centuries. In order to know how to use each therapy effectively, however, it’s essential to understand the differences between the two.
Static Magnets vs Pulsed Magnetic Fields
Static magnets have an unmoving magnetic field that doesn’t vary with time. That is, the magnetic field is always present when the magnet is present. These fields are often referred to as permanent magnetic fields. PEMF therapy creates larger, dynamic magnetic fields that are pulsed within a certain time frame, called frequency. Pulsed electromagnetic fields vary in both frequency and in intensity; the magnetic field is stronger closer to its source.
Therapeutic static magnets are used separately or integrated into wearable devices like rings, bracelets and clothing, as well as shoe inserts and mattresses. PEMF therapy, on the other hand, utilizes either a desktop or portable device (such as a foldable mat) to introduce low frequency electromagnetic fields into the body. With both therapies, users have a choice between full-body or targeted treatment using an applicator.
Permanent magnetic fields aren’t generally able to penetrate the body deeply, so they need to be stronger in intensity and must be applied for longer periods of time than is required when using PEMF devices. In contrast, PEMFs generate energy that mimics the electrical currents that exist naturally within the body and PEMFs can penetrate down to the cellular level. This means that PEMF therapy can also introduce electromagnetic frequencies throughout all bodily tissues and organs, including bone.
Therapeutic Benefits
Static magnets are used for superficial tissue actions and on acupuncture points. Magnets for acupuncture points vary widely in intensity, and higher dose magnets are best for short treatments ranging from 10 to 20 minutes. On the other hand, lower intensity magnets are ideal for smoking cessation, since users need to wear them for extended periods of time.
As noted above, PEMFs penetrate throughout the body to create a cascade of healing effects. Due to their dynamic nature, the body doesn’t become accustomed to them. This makes long-term treatment with PEMFs highly effective, especially for general health maintenance. PEMF treatments can take less time than treatment with static magnets. In addition, most of the time, the intensity of the pulsed electromagnetic fields are significantly less than that of a permanent magnetic field and still cause similar effects within the body.
Magnetic Pulse Therapy or PEMF Therapy?
Both static magnets and pulsed electromagnetic fields, as well as different signals, have been studied and found to be effective. Some assert that only a specific stimulus will create the desired clinical outcome. However, laboratory studies have shown that biological outcomes can be achieved with both permanent magnetic fields and, even more so, with pulsed electromagnetic fields.
Both static magnets and PEMFs have a place in alternative or complementary healing. Permanent magnetic fields are useful in acupuncture and superficial tissue actions, or deeper, cellular regeneration and complete internal healing, however, PEMFs offer the most efficient and effective, long-term effects for overall health. In addition, static magnets aren’t approved by the FDA, while some PEMF therapy is approved
