ΠΑΠΙΜΙ Specific PEMF Applications

B. ARTICLES INDICATING more specific APPLICATIONS

OF THE PEMF ELECTROTHERAPEUTIC GENERATORS

PART II

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Kidney Problems

  This review article notes that placebo-controlled studies have shown positive results concerning the use of pulsed magnetic field therapy in the treatment of secondary chronic pyelonephritis.

  V.A. Kiyatkin, "Pulsed Magnetic Field in Therapy of Patients with Secondary Chronic Pyelonephritis,

Lupus Erythematosus

  This review article examined the data concerning impulsed magnetic fields in the treatment of lupus erythematosus. Studies indicate that the treatment can be beneficial due to its anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, its positive action on microcirculation, and immunological reactivity.

I.V. Khamaganova, et al., "The Use of a Pulsed Magnetic Field in the Treatment of Lupus Erythematosus,"

Ter Arkh, 67(10),1995, p. 84-87.

Multiple Sclerosis

multiple sclerosis

This article reports on the cases of three patients suffering from long-time symptoms of multiple sclerosis who received treatment with extra cerebral pulsed electromagnetic fields over a period of between 6 and 18 months. Results showed all three patients experienced significant improvements in cognitive functions.

R. Sandyk, "Progressive Cognitive Improvement in Multiple Sclerosis from Treatment with Electromagnetic Fields,

multiple sclerosis

This is a report on the cases of two chronic multiple sclerosis patients exhibiting severe speech problems. Symptoms were completely resolved following 3-4 weeks of treatment with pulsed electromagnetic fields.

R. Sandyk, "Resolution of Dysarthria in Multiple Sclerosis Treatment with Weak Electromagnetic Fields,

multiple sclerosis

Results of this double-blind, placebo-controlled study found that pulsed electromagnetic fields administered daily over a period of 15 days proved to be an effective treatment in reducing spasticity and incontinence associated with multiple sclerosis.

A. Guseo, Double-Blind Treatments with Pulsating Electromagnetic Field in Multiple Sclerosis,

multiple sclerosis

Results of this double-blind, placebo-controlled study indicated that pulsed electromagnetic fields administered daily over a period of 15 days is a generally effective treatment in reducing symptoms associated with multiple sclerosis, with the most positive improvements involving the alleviation of spasticity and pain.

multiple sclerosis / Parkinson's disease

Results of this study showed that the application of ELF magnetic fields via a plastic helmet device housing a set of coils (generating fields of 8 Hz and 7.5 pT) produced beneficial clinical effects after 30 minutes in patients suffering Parkinson's disease and multiple sclerosis.

J. Bardasano, Extracranial Device for Noninvasive Neurological Treatments with Pulsating ELF Magnetic Fields,

Mix E, Jenssen HL, Lehmitz R, Lakner K, Hitzschke B, Richter M, Heydenreich A (1990)

[Effect of pulsating EMF therapy on cell volume and phagocytosis activity in multiple sclerosis and migraine –

[Article in German].

Psychiatr Neurol Med Psychol (Leipz) Aug;42(8):457-466.

Neurologische Abteilung, Universitat Rostock. PEMF treatment was studied in 10 patients with multiple sclerosis and 10 patients with migraine. In both patients' groups a single treatment induced a significant rise of yeast particle uptake by blood granulocytes. The % of phagocytizing cells was increased in migraine patients only. In both groups 20 PEMF treatments caused a reduction of particle uptake, whereas the % of phagocytizing cells remained unchanged. In migraine patients the opsonic capacity of serum and the mean cell volume of erythrocytes, lymphocytes and granulocytes were initially reduced, but increased during the course of 20 PEMF treatments. The biphasic changes of cell volume and phagocytic activity are interpreted as a result of counter-regulation of the organism in response to the primary PEMF effect. PMID: 2247525, UI: 91062477

Sandyk R (1996) Treatment with EMF alters the clinical course of chronic progressive multiple sclerosis: a case report.

Int J Neurosci Nov;88(1-2):75-82. NeuroCommunication Research Laboratories, Danbury, CT 06811, USA.

 It is estimated that 10-20% of patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) have a chronic progressive (CP) course characterized by an insidious of neurological deficits followed by steady progression of disability in the absence of symptomatic remission. No therapeutic modality has shown specific efficacy in the treatment of patients with CP MS and there are no data to show that any pharmacologic or other modality alters the clinical course of CP MS. Treatment with picotesla EMFs is a highly effective modality for the symptomatic management of MS including the chronic progressive form. Also, this treatment also seems to alter the natural course of the disease in CP patients. A 36 yr-old man experienced, at the age of 31, insidious weakness in the legs and several months later developed difficulties with balance with ataxia of gait. His gait abnormality progressed slowly over the following years and at the age of 35 he was severely disabled with spastic paraparesis and ataxia using a rolling walker for ambulation and a scooter for longer distances. In particular, his disability had progressed rapidly over the 6 mo preceding the initiation of treatment with EMFs. He as classified have CP MS and his prognosis was considered extremely unfavorable due to the degree of cerebellar and pyramidal tract involvement and the rapid course of deterioration. In July 1995 the patient began experimental treatment with EMFs. While receiving 3 treatment sessions/wk for 12 mo he experienced improvement in cerebellar functions such as gait, balance and tremor as well as bowel and bladder functions, mood, sleep and cognitive function and resolution of diplopia, blurring of vision, dysarthria, paresthesias in the hands, and fatigue. Most remarkably, there was no further progression of the disease during the course of magnetic therapy. This case showed that EMF-treatment reversed the clinical course of CP MS in addition to producing symptomatic improvement. PMID: 9003966, UI: 97157687

Mix E, Jenssen HL, Lehmitz R, Lakner K, Hitzschke B, Richter M, Heydenreich A (1990)

[Effect of pulsating EMF therapy on cell volume and phagocytosis activity in multiple sclerosis and migraine - Article in German].

Psychiatr Neurol Med Psychol (Leipz) Aug;42(8):457-466. Neurologische Abteilung, Universitat Rostock.

PEMF treatment was studied in 10 patients with multiple sclerosis and 10 patients with migraine. In both patients' groups a single treatment induced a significant rise of yeast particle uptake by blood granulocytes. The % of phagocytizing cells was increased in migraine patients only. In both groups 20 PEMF treatments caused a reduction of particle uptake, whereas the % of phagocytizing cells remained unchanged. In migraine patients the opsonic capacity of serum and the mean cell volume of erythrocytes, lymphocytes and granulocytes were initially reduced, but increased during the course of 20 PEMF treatments. The biphasic changes of cell volume and phagocytic activity are interpreted as a result of counter-regulation of the organism in response to the primary PEMF effect. PMID: 2247525, UI: 91062477

Muscle Injury

This study examined the effects of pulsed electromagnetic fields in patients suffering from peripheral muscle paralysis. Treatment consisted of 20-minute exposures (2-50 Hz, 70 G). Results showed 50-Hz pulsed electromagnetic fields to be the most effective level of treatment and that such therapy enhanced muscle irritability in peripheral paralysis patients as well as in healthy controls.

L. Mecseki, The Study of the Efficacy of Magnetotherapy in Peripheral Paralysis,

Hungarian Symposium on Magnetotherapy, 2nd Symposium, 16-17,May 1987, Szekesfehervar, Hungary, p. 149-158.

Neck Pain

This double-blind, placebo-controlled study examined the effects of low-energy pulsed electromagnetic fields administered via soft collars on patients suffering from persistent neck pain. Results indicated significantly beneficial effects following three weeks of treatment.

D. Foley-Nolan, Low Energy High Frequency (27.12 MHZ) Therapy for Persistent Neck Pain. Double Blind Placebo Controlled Trial, Bioelectromagnetics Society, 12th Annual,June 10-14, 1990, San Antonia, TX, p. 73.

Nerve Damage

This study examined the effects of a magnet therapy device used to administer approximately 10 mT for approximately 10 minutes in patients with optic nerve atrophy. Patients underwent 10-15 sessions per course. Results showed that vision acuity in patients with low acuity values (below 0.04 diopters) improved in 50 percent of cases. It was also found that the treatment improved ocular blood flow in cases of optic nerve atrophy. Optimal benefits were experienced after 10 therapy sessions.

L.V. Zobina, Effectiveness of Magnetotherapy in Optic Nerve Atrophy. A Preliminary Study,

Vestn Oftalmol, 106(5),September-October 1990, p. 54-57.

Neurological Disorders

neurological and locomotor disorders

This article summarizes clinical results obtained the authors in using pulsed electromagnetic fields  in the treatment of neurological and locomotor disorders among a group of 148 patients in a hospital setting over a period of 3 years. The authors claim that 58-80 percent of such patients experienced benefits of some kind over the course of magnetotherapy.

G. Terlaki, Clinical Experiences Magnetotherapy, Hungarian Symposium on Magnetotherapy,

nervous system diseases

This study examined the effects of magnetotherapy on patients suffering from nervous system diseases. Treatment consisted of 10-12 6-minute exposures (10-20 kG, 0.1-0.6 Hz). Results indicated beneficial effects in 25 of the 27 patients receiving the treatment.

A.A. Skorometz, Magnetic Impulse Therapy of Patients with Spondylogenic Diseases of the Nervous System,

nerve problems

Results of this study found that the use of magnetic fields (30-35 mT, 10 and 100 Hz) produced beneficial effects in 93 percent of patients suffering from nerve problems.

A.G. Shiman, Use of Combined Methods of Magnetoelectrotherapy in the Treatment for Polineuropathies,

Raji AM (1984) An experimental study of the effects of pulsed EMF (Diapulse) on nerve repair.                                                J Hand Surg [Br] Jun;9(2):105-112. This study investigates the effects of a PEMF  on experimentally divided and sutured common peroneal nerves in rats. Evidence is presented that PEMF accelerates recovery of use of the injured limb and enhances regeneration of damaged nerves. PMID: 6747406, UI: 84266450

Ophthalmologic  Disorders

intraocular pressure

In this study, patients with primary open-angle glaucoma with compensated intraocular pressure were administered magnetotherapy. The procedure was administered to a patient in a sitting posture with a magnetic inductor held before the eye. Sessions lasted 10 minutes and each course included 10 sessions. Following 4-5 months of therapy, results showed improved vision acuity 0.16 diopters, on an average of 29 out of 30 eyes with vision acuity below 1.0.

Bisvas, et al., "Possibilities of Magnetotherapy in Stabilization of Visual Function in Patients with Glaucoma,

Sultanov MIu, Iskenderov GF, Tagi-zade NS, Seidbekov OS (1992) [Our experience with the complex treatment of phlegmon of the lacrimal sac - Article in Russian]. Vestn Oftalmol May;108(3):16-18.

89 patients with lacrimal sac phlegmons, 76 women and 13 men, aged 16 to 78, were given multiple-modality treatment, consisting in Group 1 (43 patients) of traditional methods, such as UHF therapy, antibiotics, sulfonamides, symptomatic therapy, dacryocystorhinostomy after complete cessation of inflammation, and in group 2 (46 patients) including sessions of intermittent magnetic field (IMF) exposure, antibiotics, and early dacryocystorhinostomy. Sparing technique was used in all operations, carried out under local anesthesia with 2% procaine or trimecaine. IMF exposure was an effective therapeutic means characterized by antiinflammatory, resolving, and analgesic effects. IMF sessions and early dacryocystorhinostomy enhance cessation of inflammation and improve the treatment efficacy: remote results of surgery were excellent in 80% of Group 1 patients and in 90.9% of Group 2 patients.

IMF exposure halved the terms of medical and social rehabilitation of patients with lacrimal sac phlegmons.

PMID: 1481321, UI: 93127383

glaucoma (open-angle)

In this study, patients with primary open-angle glaucoma with compensated intraocular pressure were administered magnetotherapy. The procedure was administered to a patient in a sitting posture with a magnetic inductor held before the eye. Sessions lasted 10 minutes and each course included 10 sessions. Following 4-5 months of therapy, results showed improved vision acuity 0.16 diopters, on an average of 29 out of 30 eyes with vision acuity below 1.0.

Bisvas, et al., "Possibilities of Magnetotherapy in Stabilization of Visual Function in Patients with Glaucoma,

Glaucoma (open-angle)

[The effect of a pulsed electromagnetic field on the hemodynamics of eyes with glaucoma]  [Article in Russian]

Tsisel'skii IuV, Kashintseva LT, Skrinnik AV.  Oftalmol Zh 1990;(3):154-7

In this study, patients with primary open-angle glaucoma with compensated intraocular pressure were administered magnetotherapy.

 The procedure was administered to a patient in a sitting posture with a magnetic inductor held before the eye. Sessions lasted 10 minutes and each course included 10 sessions. Following 4-5 months of therapy, results showed improved vision acuity 0.16 diopters, on an average of 29 out of 30 eyes with vision acuity below 1.0.

Bisvas, et al., "Possibilities of Magnetotherapy in Stabilization of Visual Function in Patients with Glaucoma,

Shlygin VV, Arnautov LN, Maksimov GV (1993) [A possible mechanism for treating retinal dystrophy with an EMF –

[Article in Russian]. Biofizika May;38(3):507-510.

A mathematical model is proposed to explain how electromagnetic treatment can restore vision in retinal dystrophy induced by pathology of receptive cells. Possible relationship between the treatment efficiency and dystrophy localization is shown.

Skripka VK (1981) [Results of the use of magnetic field in ophthalmology –

Tsisel'skii IuV (1990) [The effect of a pulsed EMF on ocular hydrodynamics in open-angle glaucoma –

[Article in Russian]. Oftalmol Zh 2:89-92.

The influence of PEMF on ocular hydrodynamics in open-angle glaucoma was studied in 150 patients (283 eyes) with latent, initial and advanced glaucoma using the method and the device of the Filatov Institute. Impulse frequency was 50 Hz, duration 0.02 s, pulse form rectangular, rate of pulse rise 4/10(-4) s, rate of magnetic induction rise 2/10(-4) mT/s, amplitude value of magnetic induction at the pulse level 8.0-8.5 mT. The procedure was for 7 m, for 10 sessions. PEMF improved ocular hydrodynamics in open-angle glaucoma. It raised aqueous outflow and production, and reduced the Becker's coefficient. Outflow was normalized in 25, 18 and 17% of cases at the latent stage, initial stage and advanced stage, respectively. PEMF is recommended as part of complex treatment of open-angle glaucoma. PMID: 2280950, UI: 91125806

Tsisel'skii IuV, Kashintseva LT, Skrinnik AV (1990) [The effect of a pulsed EMF on the hemodynamics of eyes with glaucoma - Article in Russian]. Oftalmol Zh 3:154-157.

The influence of PEMF on ocular hydrodynamics in open-angle glaucoma was studied in 150 patients (283 eyes) with latent, initial and advanced glaucoma using the method and the device of the Filatov Institute. Impulse frequency was 50 Hz, duration 0.02 s, pulse form rectangular, rate of pulse rise 4/10(-4) s, rate of magnetic induction rise 2/10(-4) mT/s, amplitude value of magnetic induction at the pulse level 8.0-8.5 mT. The procedure was for 7 m, for 10 sessions. PEMF improved ocular hydrodynamics in open-angle glaucoma. Rheographic coefficient and relative volume pulse rose in 88 and 82%, respectively. The degree of the rise and restoration frequency of rheographic values of the glaucomatous eye under the influence of PEMF to the age norm was more obvious in latent and initial glaucoma. PMID: 2255478, UI: 91074480

Zaslavskii AIu, Markarov GS, Markarova IS, Loskutov IA, Gelis IuS, Tarutin NP (1996) [Ophthalmologic electromagnetic stimulator OFTEMAGS - Article in Russian]. Med Tekh Sep;5:43-45.

They describe the design and specifications of an ophthalmological EM stimulator, its new therapeutic factor (the pulse low-frequency field combined with a static magnetic field).

A procedure for treating eye diseases and recommendations how to use the therapeutic factor in ophthalmology are given. PMID: 8992189, UI: 97098985

Osteoarthritis

Results of this double-blind, placebo-controlled study indicated that exposure to pulsed electromagnetic fields had beneficial effects in the treatment of patients suffering from painful osteo arthritis of the knee or cervical spine.

PEMF therapy consisted of 18 exposures lasting 30 minutes and administered 3-5 times per week.

D.H. Trock, The Effect of Pulsed Electromagnetic Fields in the Treatment of Osteoarthritis of the Knee and Cervical Spine. Report of Randomized, Double Blind, Placebo Controlled Trials," Journal of Rheumatology, 21(10),1994, p. 1903-1911.

This double-blind, placebo-controlled study indicated that treatment with pulsed electromagnetic fields produced significant favorable effects in patients suffering from osteoarthritis.

D.H. Trock, Treatment of Osteoarthritis with Pulsed Electromagnetic Fields,"

Bioelectric Repair and Growth Society, Vol. XIII, 13th Annual Meeting,10-13 October 1993, Dana Point, CA, p. 14.

This double-blind, placebo-controlled study showed that treatment with pulsed electromagnetic fields yielded significant benefits in patients suffering from osteoarthritis of the knee or cervical spine.

PEMF therapy (25 G, 5-24 Hz) consisted of 18 30-minute exposures over a period of 3-4 weeks.

A.J. Bollet, Treatment of Osteoarthritis with Pulsed Electromagnetic Fields,

European Bioelectromagnetics Association, 2nd Congress,9-11 December 1993, Bled Slovenia, p. 46.

This controlled study examined the effects of changeable magnetic fields (Polus-101 device) coupled with more conventional therapies in the treatment of patients suffering from osteoarthrosis. Magnetic therapy consisted of daily 20 minute exposures for a total of 12 sessions. Results showed more rapid improvements of immunological indices and alleviation of symptoms associated with the disease among patients receiving the combination therapy compared to those treated only conventionally.

L. Yurkiv, The Use of Changeable Magnetic Field in Treatment of Osteoarthrosis,

European Bioelectromagnetics Association, 3rd International Congress,29 February-3 March 1996, Nancy France.

Osteochondrosis

Osteochondrosis

This study examined the effects of alternating magnetic fields (50 Hz, 10-50 mT) combined with conservative therapy in patients suffering from spinal osteochondrosis. Treatment consisted of 20-minute exposures over a total of 20-25 such exposures per course. Results showed clinical benefits in 95 percent of patients receiving the combination treatment compared to just 30 percent among controls.

L.L. Butenko,

The Use of Alternating Magnetic Fields in Spinal Osteochondrosis, Mechanisms of Biological Action of Electromagnetic Fields,

 27-31 October 1987, Pushchino, USSR, USSR Academy of Sciences, Research Center for Biological Studies, Inst. of Biological Physics, Coordination Council of Comecon Countries and Yugoslavia for Research in the Fields of Biological Physics, p. 183.

Osteonecrosis

Osteonecrosis

This pilot study found that the use of pulsed electromagnetic fields produced beneficial effects in patients suffering from osteonecrosis of the femoral head.

N.S. Eftekhar, Osteonecrosis of the Femoral Head Treated Pulsed Electromagnetic Fields (PEMFs): A Preliminary Report,

osteonecrosis

This study examined the use of pulsed electromagnetic fields in the treatment of osteonecrosis.

Compared to published findings concerning surgical treatment, results showed PEMF therapy to be superior in producing improvement.

M. Hinsenkamp, Preliminary Results in Electromagnetic Field Treatment of Osteonecrosis,

Osteoporosis

osteoporosis

This study examined the effects of a 72-Hz pulsating electromagnetic field administered for 10 hours per day over a period of 12 weeks on bone density in women prone to osteoporosis. Results found significant increases in bone mineral density in the area of EMF exposure.

F. Tabrah, Bone Density Changes in Osteoporosis-prone Women Exposed to Pulsed Electromagnetic Fields (PEMFs),

osteoporosis

In this study, osteoporosis patients received treatment with pulsed electromagnetic fields (50 G, 50-100 Hz) for 30 minutes per session over a period of two years involving 20 sessions. These subjects were compared to similar patients treated with calcitonin. Results indicated PEMF to be effective in reducing pain, and to be even more so when combined with the conventional drug treatment.

T.W. Bilotta, The Use of Low-Frequency Low Magnitude PEMFs in Treatment of Osteoporosis,

Journal of Bioelectr, 8(2),1989, p. 316.

osteoporosis

This controlled study examined the effects of pulsed electromagnetic fields in women suffering from postmenopausal osteoporosis. Treatment consisted of daily 30-minute exposures for 20 days every six months. Results showed that PEMF treatment combined with 100 IU per day of nasal spray synthetic salmon calcitonin arrested bone decrease and significantly increased bone mass relative to patients receiving drug therapy alone.

T.W. Bilotta, Influence of Pulsed Electromagnetic Fields on Post-Menopausal Osteoporosis, First World Congress for Electricity and Magnetism in Biology and Medicine, 14-19June 1992, Lake Buena Vista, FL, p. 78.

osteoporosis

Results of this study found the use of total-body low-frequency magnetic fields (60 G, 50-100 Hz) to be effective in the treatment of patients suffering from osteoporosis-related symptoms. Treatment consisted of a total of 15 exposures of 30 minutes each.

G. Saveriano S. Ricci,Treatment of Senile Osteoporosis Caused Rachialgia with Low-Frequency PEMFs,

Journal of Bioelectr, 8(2),1989, p. 321.

Otitis Externa

This study examined the effects synchronizing pulse waves in the impaired area when treating patients suffering from acute diffuse otitis externa with low-level magnetic fields in combination with conventional therapies. Patients were divided into three groups. The first received ultrahigh-frequency or very-high-frequency electromagnetic waves. The second received 15-minute daily exposures to 50-Hz alternating or pulsating 20-mT magnetic fields. The third group of patients were treated switching on the same magnetic fields only during propagation of the pulse wave through the ear vessels. Results showed a 100 percent recovery rate in patients across all three groups, with recovery taking the least amount of time among those in group 3.

V.V. Sunstov, Treatment of Acute Diffuse Otitis Externa Low-Frequency Magnetic Fields,

Vestn Otorinolaringol, 6, 1991, p. 35-38.

Pancreatitis

This study found that sinusoidal and continuous low-frequency alternating magnetic field exhibited beneficial effects in patients suffering from chronic pancreatitis.

A.A. Fedorov, The Use of a Low-frequency Magnetic Field in the Combined Therapy of Chronic Pancreatitis,

Vopr Kurortol Fizioter Lech Fiz Kult, (5), September-October 1990, p. 28-30.

Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson's disease and depression.

Noting that transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a new and noninvasive method of direct cortical neuron stimulation, this review article discusses recent studies showing that TMS has led to improvements in symptoms associated with Parkinson's disease and depression.

M.S. George, et al., "Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation: A Neuropsychiatric Tool for the 21st Century,

Pseudoarthrosis

Pseudarthroses (Surgically-Resistant) / Non-Unions

Bassett, C. A. L. et al.; "A Non-Operative Salvage of Surgically-Resistant Pseudarthroses and Non-Unions by Pulsing Electromagnetic Fields: A Preliminary Report"; Clin. Orthoped. and Rel. Research; No. 124; pp. 128 to 143, (May 1977).

Pseudoarthrosis

In this study, 92 congenital pseudoarthrosis patients received treatment with pulsing electromagnetic fields.

Results indicated a 76-percent rate of lesion recovery.

J.S. Kort, et al., Congenital Pseudoarthrosis of the Tibia: Treatment with Pulsing Electromagnetic Fields,

Respiratory Problems

Respiratory Dyskinesia

This article reports on the case of a schizophrenic patient suffering from respiratory difficulties associated with neuroleptic withdrawal. Treatment using external application of picotesla-range magnetic fields quickly attenuated the severity of such problems.

R. Sandyk K. Derpapas, Successful Treatment of Respiratory Dyskinesia with picoTesla Range Magnetic Fields,

International Journal of Neurosci, 75(1-2), March 1994, p. 91-102.

pyoinflammatory bronchopulmonary complications

Results of this study showed that the use of low-frequency magnetic fields helped to prevent and treat critically ill patients suffering from pyoinflammatory bronchopulmonary complications, and to prevent such complications as well.

Sleep Disorders

Results of this double-blind, placebo-controlled study indicated that low-energy-emission therapy significantly improved sleeping patterns among patients suffering from chronic psychophysiological insomnia.

Therapy was administered 3 times per week, always in late afternoon and for 20 minutes, over a period of 4 weeks.

R. Hajdukovic, Effects of Low Energy Emission Therapy (LEET) on Sleep Structure,

First World Congress for Electricity and Magnetism in Biology and Medicine, 14-19June 1992, Lake Buena Vista, FL, p. 92.

This double-blind, placebo-controlled study examined the effects of low-energy emission therapy (27 MHz amplitude-modulated electromagnetic fields) in patients suffering from insomnia. Treatment consisted of 3 exposures per week over a 4-week period. Results showed significant increases in total sleep time among patients in the treatment group relative to controls.

M. Erman, Low-Energy Emission Therapy (LEET) Treatment for somnia,"

Bioelectromagnetics Society, 13th Annual Meeting, 23-27 June 1991, Salt Lake City, UT, p. 69.

This review article notes that studies have found low-energy emission therapy to be effective in the treatment of chronic insomnia, and suggests that it may also be of value for patients suffering from generalized anxiety disorders.

C. Guilleminault B. Pasche,Clinical Effects of Low Energy Emission Therapy,

Skin Disorders

Spinal Cord Injury

spinal cord injury

This study examined the effects of functional magnetic stimulation used to treat spinal cord injury in seven male patients.

 Results showed the treatment to be an effective noninvasive approach.

M.K. Sheriff, Neuromodulation of Detrusor Hyper-reflexia Functional Magnetic Stimulation of the Sacral Roots,

Ligament and  tendon problems

Tendonitis (rotator cuff, persistent)

Binder A, Parr G, Hazleman B, Fitton-Jackson S (1984) Pulsed EMF therapy of persistent rotator cuff tendinitis: A double-blind controlled assessment. Lancet Mar 31;1(8379):695-698.

The value of PEMF for the treatment of persistent rotator cuff tendinitis was tested in a double-blind controlled study in 29 patients whose symptoms were refractory to steroid injection and other conventional conservative measures. The treated group (15 patients) had a significant benefit compared with the control group (14 patients) during the first 4 wk of the study, when the control group received a placebo. In the second 4 wk, when all patients were on active coils, no significant differences were noted between the groups. This lack of difference persisted over the third phase, when neither group received any treatment for 8 wk. At the end of the study 19 (65%) of the 29 patients were symptomless and 5 others much improved. PEMF therapy may thus be useful in the treatment of severe and persistent rotator cuff and possibly other chronic tendon lesions. Publication Types: Clinical trial Randomized controlled trial PMID: 6143039, UI: 84166793

Chard MD, Hazleman BL (1988) Pulsed EMF treatment of chronic lateral humeral epicondylitis.

Currier DP, Ray JM, Nyland J, Rooney JG, Noteboom JT, Kellogg R (1993)

Effects of electrical and electromagnetic stimulation after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction.

J Orthop Sports Phys Ther Apr;17(4):177-184. Division of Physical Therapy, Univ of Kentucky Med Ctr, Lexington 40536-0079.

Devereaux MD, Hazleman BL, Thomas PP (1985) Chronic lateral humeral epicondylitis: a double-blind controlled assessment of pulsed EMF therapy. Clin Exp Rheumatol Oct;3(4):333-336.

PEMFs are beneficial in the treatment of rotator cuff tendinitis.

As lateral humeral epicondylitis (tennis elbow) is a similar chronic tendon lesion, 30 patients with both clinical and thermographic evidence of tennis elbow were randomly allocated to receive either active or inactive PEMF therapy. Treatment was continued for a minimum period of 8 wk.

At this time there was no statistical difference between the two groups.

Publication Types: Clinical trial Randomized controlled trial PMID: 4085165, UI: 86106969

Tourette's Syndrome

This article reports on the case of a 6-year-old boy suffering from Tourette's syndrome who experienced improvements in visuoconstructional and visuomotor skills, along with more general symptomatic improvements, following the extracranial application of electromagnetic fields in the picotesla range of intensity.

Ulcers (Trophic)

Alekseenko AV, Gusak VV (1991) [Treatment of trophic ulcers of the lower extremities using a magnetic field - Article in Russian].

 Klin Khir 7:60-63.

ulcers (decubitus)

This placebo-controlled study examined the effects of pulsed electromagnetic fields in the treatment of decubitus ulcers in hospitalized elderly patients with stage II and III pressure ulcers. Patients received daily PEMF stimulation in conjunction with conventional treatment for a period of up to 5 weeks. The findings were that combined PEMF/conventional treatment was superior to conventional treatment and to the placebo received controls.

ulcers  (pressure, stage II and III)

This double-blind, placebo-controlled study found that treatment with non thermal pulsed electromagnetic energy (PEMET) accelerated would healing in spinal cord injury patients suffering from stage II and III pressure ulcers. PEMET treatment consisted of pulsed 27.12-MHz energy . Energy was delivered the use of a treatment head placed in wound dressings, in 30-minute periods twice a day for 12 weeks or until sores healed.

ulcers

This double-blind, placebo-controlled study found that treatment with non thermal pulsed radio frequency energy accelerated would healing in spinal cord injury patients suffering from stage II and III pressure ulcers. RF treatment consisted of pulsed 27.12-MHz energy delivered via a treatment head placed in wound dressings, in 30-minute periods twice a day for 12 weeks or until sores healed.

ulcers (recalcitrant, venous)

A portable pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) device to enhance healing of recalcitrant venous ulcers: a double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial.   Br J Dermatol 1992 Aug;127(2):147-54

Stiller MJ, Pak GH, Shupack JL, Thaler S, Kenny C, Jondreau L.

Ronald O. Perelman Department of Dermatology, New York University Medical Center, New York.

A prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled multicentre study assessed the clinical efficacy and safety of pulsed electromagnetic limb ulcer therapy (PELUT) in the healing of recalcitrant, predominantly venous leg ulcers. The portable device was used at home for 3 h daily during this 8-week clinical trial as an adjunct to a wound dressing. Wound surface area, ulcer depth and pain intensity were assessed at weeks 0, 4 and 8. At week 8 the active group had a 47.7% decrease in wound surface area vs. a 42.3% increase for placebo (P < 0.0002). Investigators' global evaluations indicated that 50% of the ulcers in the active group healed or markedly improved vs. 0% in the placebo group, and 0% of the active group worsened vs. 54% of the placebo group (P < 0.001). Significant decreases in wound depth (P < 0.04) and pain intensity (P < 0.04) favouring the active group were seen. Patients whose ulcers improved significantly after 8 weeks were permitted to continue double-blind therapy for an additional 4 weeks. Eleven active and one placebo patient continued therapy until week 12, with the active treatment group continuing to show improvement. There were no reports of adverse events attributable to this device. We conclude that the PELUT device is a safe and effective adjunct to non-surgical therapy for recalcitrant venous leg ulcers.

Publication Types:  Clinical Trial  Multicenter Study Randomized Controlled Trial

Ulcers (venous)

[Therapy of venous ulcers using pulsating electromagnetic fields--personal results] [Article in Serbo-Croatian (Roman)]

Duran V, Zamurovic A, Stojanovic S, Poljacki M, Jovanovic M, Durisic S.

Klinika za infektivne i dermatoveneroloske bolesti, Medicinski fakultet, Novi Sad.    Med Pregl 1991;44(11-12):485-8 

The authors review the results of the treatment of venous varices by a pulsating electromagnetic field (PEMF), by the use of IVEMT-2 apparatus, treated at the Department of Dermatovenereology in Novi Sad and the Institute of Medical Rehabilitation. The treatment was carried out in 18 patients--5 men and 13 women, mean age 56 years, all with venous varices of post-thrombophlebitic origin. The number of sessions within the PEMF treatment was 10 per patient, each session lasting 15 min. The results were followed by measuring the varix surface prior to and after the treatment. The number of varices prior to the therapy was 26 and after the treatment was 20. The total surface of the varices before the treatment was 55183.90 mm2, the mean surface being 2122.46 mm2. After the treatment 6 varices epithelialized, while the total surface was 36902.51 mm2. The mean surface of the varices following the treatment was 1845.13 mm2. The varix surface reduction rate following the treatment was 33.13%. Considering the number of patients, the obtained results are preliminary and they reflect the benefits of PEMF for epithelialization of venous varices. PMID: 1821449 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Ulcers (pressure)

The effects of non-thermal pulsed electromagnetic energy on wound healing of pressure ulcers in spinal cord-injured patients: a randomized, double-blind study.

Ostomy Wound Manage 1995 Apr;41(3):42-4, 46, 48 passim Salzberg CA, Cooper-Vastola SA, Perez F, Viehbeck MG, Byrne DW.

The objective of this randomized, double-blind study was to determine if non-thermal pulsed electromagnetic energy treatment significantly increases the healing rate of pressure ulcers in patients with spinal cord injuries. Subjects included volunteers admitted to a Veteran's Administration Hospital in New York over a 2 year period and consisted of 30 male spinal cord-injured patients, 20 with Stage II and 10 with Stage III pressure ulcers. Subjects were given non-thermal pulsed high-frequency electromagnetic energy treatment for 30 minutes twice daily for 12 weeks or until healed. The percentage of pressure ulcers healed was measured at one week. Of the 20 patients with Stage II pressure ulcers, the active group had a significantly increased rate of healing with a greater percentage of the ulcer healed at one week than the control group. After controlling for the baseline status of the pressure ulcer, active treatment was independently associated with a significantly shorter median time to complete healing of the ulcer. Stage III pressure ulcers healed faster in the treatment group but the sample size was limited. For spinal cord-injured men with Stage II pressure ulcers, active non-thermal pulsed electromagnetic energy treatment significantly improved healing.

Ulcers (varicose, chronic)

Treatment of chronic varicose ulcers with pulsed electromagnetic fields: a controlled pilot study.   Ir Med J 1991 Jun;84(2):54-5

Todd DJ, Heylings DJ, Allen GE, McMillin WP.   Department of Dermatology, Belfast City Hospital.

To evaluate the efficacy of pulsed electromagnetic fields (PEMF) in healing of chronic varicose ulcers, 19 patients with this condition were included in a double-blind controlled clinical trial. All patients received standard ulcer therapy throughout the duration of the study and were randomly divided into two groups to receive either active or inactive PEMF therapy. Active therapy was provided by the use of a pait of helmholtz coils on a twice weekly basis over a five week period and inactive therapy was provided on an identical regimen with identical coils wound so that no magnetic field was produced when an electric current was passed through them. The clinician and patients were unable to distinguish the active or inactive coils. No statistically relevant difference was noted between the two groups in the healing rates of the ulcer, change in the lower leg girth, pain or infection rates. However there was a trend in favour of a decrease in ulcer size and lower leg girth in the group treated with active PEMF. As PEMF is a novel treatment for chronic varicose ulcers, more work needs to be done to establish treatment parameters and its usefulness in the treatment of this condition.

Publication Types: Controlled Clinical Trial  Randomized Controlled Trial PMID: 1894496 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

ulcers (pressure)

Accelerated wound healing of pressure ulcers by pulsed high peak power electromagnetic energy .

Itoh M, Montemayor JS Jr, Matsumoto E, Eason A, Lee MH, Folk FS.    Decubitus 1991 Feb;4(1):24-5, 29-34

Comorosan S, Vasilco R, Arghiropol M, Paslaru L, Jieanu V, Stelea S (1993) The effect of diapulse therapy on the healing of decubitus ulcer. Rom J Physiol Jan;30(1-2):41-45. Interdisciplinary Research Group, Fundeni Hospital, Bucharest, Romania.

The effect of high peak power PEMF  on treatment of pressure ulcers is under investigation. 20 elderly patients, aged from 60 to 84, hospitalized with chronic conditions and bearing long-standing pressure ulcers, are subjected to Diapulse sessions (1-2 daily), parallel to conventional treatment. 5 patients undergo conventional therapy, serving as control and 5 others follow conventional+placebo Diapulse treatment. All patients were daily monitored, concerning their clinical status and ulcers' healing. After a maximum 2-wk treatment, bulge healing rate was: 85% excellent and 15% very good healing under Diapulse therapy; in the placebo group, 80% patients show no improvement and 20% poor improvement; in the control group, 60% patients show no improvement and 40% poor improvement of ulcers. This investigation strongly advises for Diapulse treatment as a modern, uninvasive therapy of great efficiency and low social costs in resolving a serious, widespread medical problem. Publication Types: Clinical trial PMID: 7982015, UI: 95072987

Duran V, Zamurovic A, Stojanovic S, Poljacki M, Jovanovic M, Durisic S (1991) [Therapy of venous ulcers using pulsating EMFs: personal results - Article in Serbo-Croatian (Roman)]. Med Pregl 44(11-12):485-488. Klinika za infektivne i dermatoveneroloske bolesti, Medicinski fakultet, Novi Sad.

The authors review the results of the treatment of venous varices by  PEMF,  treated at the Dept of Dermatovenereology in Novi Sad and the Institute of Med Rehabilitation. The treatment was carried out in 18 patients: 5 men and 13 women, mean age 56 yr, all with venous varices of post-thrombophlebitic origin. The number of sessions within the PEMF treatment was 10/patient, each session lasting 15 m. The results were followed by measuring the varix surface before and after the treatment. The number of varices before the therapy was 26 and after the treatment was 20. The total surface of the varices before the treatment was 55183.90 mm2, the mean surface being 2122.46 mm2. After the treatment 6 varices epithelialized, while the total surface was 36902.51 mm2. The mean surface of the varices after the treatment was 1845.13 mm2. The varix surface reduction rate after the treatment was 33.13%. Considering the number of patients, the obtained results are preliminary and they reflect the benefits of PEMF for epithelialization of venous varices. PMID: 1821449, UI: 92334277

Ieran M, Zaffuto S, Bagnacani M, Annovi M, Moratti A, Cadossi R (1990) Effect of low frequency pulsing EMFs on skin ulcers of venous origin in humans: a double-blind study.

J Orthop Res Mar;8(2):276-282. Dept of Med Angiology, Arcispedale S. Maria Nuova, Reggio Emilia, Italy.

The effect of an EMF on the healing of skin ulcers of venous origin in humans has been investigated in a double-blind study. 44 patients have been admitted to the study; one-half were exposed to active stimulators (experimental group) and the remaining to dummy stimulators (control group). The stimulation was scheduled to last a maximum of 90 d. The success rate was significantly higher in the experimental group both at d 90 (p<.02) and in the follow-up period (p<.005). The effect of the EMF may last even when the stimulation is over. No ulcers worsened in the experimental group, while 4 worsened in the control group. 25% of the patients in the experimental group and 50% in the control group experienced recurrence of the ulcer. Stimulation with an EMF is a useful adjunctive therapy in the management of these patients. Publication Types: Clinical trial Controlled clinical trial PMID: 2303961, UI: 90155636

Stiller MJ, Pak GH, Shupack JL, Thaler S, Kenny C, Jondreau L (1992) A portable pulsed EMF (PEMF) device to enhance healing of recalcitrant venous ulcers: a double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial.

Br J Dermatol Aug;127(2):147-154. Ronald O. Perelman Dept of Dermatology, New York Univ Med Ctr, New York.

A prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled multicentre study assessed the clinical efficacy and safety of pulsed EM limb ulcer therapy (PELUT) in the healing of recalcitrant, predominantly venous leg ulcers. The portable device was used at home for 3 h daily during this 8-wk clinical trial as an adjunct to a wound dressing. Wound surface area, ulcer depth and pain intensity were assessed at wk 0, 4 and 8. At wk 8 the active group had a 47.7% decrease in wound surface area vs. a 42.3% increase for placebo (p<.0002). 50% of the ulcers in the active group healed or markedly improved vs. 0% in the placebo group, and 0% of the active group worsened vs. 54% of the placebo group (p<.001). Significant decreases in wound depth (p<.04) and pain intensity (p<.04) favouring the active group were seen. Patients whose ulcers improved significantly after 8 wk were permitted to continue double-blind therapy for an additional 4 wk. 11 active and 1 placebo patient continued therapy until wk 12, with the active treatment group continuing to show improvement. There were no reports of adverse events attributable to this device. The PELUT device was a safe and effective adjunct to non-surgical therapy for recalcitrant venous leg ulcers. Publication Types: Clinical trial Multicenter study Randomized controlled trial PMID: 1390143, UI: 93002349

Kirillov IB, Suchkova ZV, Lastushkin AV, Sigaev AA, Nekhaeva TI (1996) [Magentotherapy in the comprehensive treatment of vascular complications of diabetes mellitus - Article in Russian]. Klin Med (Mosk) 74(5):39-41.

320 diabetes mellitus (DM) patients were exposed to impulsed magnetic field, 100 control DM patients received conservative therapy alone. 270 patients had microangiopathy, macroangiopathy was diagnosed in 50 patients. Magnetotherapy in combination with conservative methods gave good and satisfactory results in 74% of patients versus 28% in control group. Metabolism stabilization resulted in some patients in reduced blood sugar. Use of magnetic field produced faster and longer response than conservative therapy.

PMID: 8999182, UI: 97062022

Venous  Insufficiency

This study examined the effects of alternating magnetic fields (15-20 minutes per day over a period of 20 days) in patients suffering from chronic venous insufficiency, varicose veins, and trophic shin ulcers. Results showed good effects in 236 of the 271 patients receiving the treatment. Thirty-four patients reported satisfactory effects. Only one patient experienced no effects.

This study examined the effects of running impulse magnetic fields in patients suffering from vessel obliteration diseases of the legs. Treatment consisted of 15-20 whole body exposures (0.5-5 mT, 1-2 Hz) lasting 15-20 minutes each. Results showed treatment led to a significant reduction in the number of patients experiencing leg pain while at rest. Among patients previously unable to walk a 500-m distance, 52 percent were able to complete the distance following treatment. Circulation improved in 75-82 percent of patients.

Y.B. Kirillov, et al., "Magnetotherapy for Obliterative Disease of the Vessels of the Legs,"

Vopr Kurortol Fizioter Lech Fiz Kult, 3,1992, . 14-17.

Galimzianov FV (1990) [Electromagnetic therapy after phlebectomy - Article in Russian]. Khirurgiia (Mosk) May;5:108-110.

Comparative analysis of outpatient treatment by means of pulsed complexly-modulated EMF (PCMEMF) applied after phlebectomy in 30 patients with varicosity of the lower limbs showed the expediency of this type of treatment in the postoperative period. Exposure of the operated on limb to PCMEMF raises the efficacy of the rehabilitation measures and reduces the terms of the patients' temporary incapacity. PMID: 2391917, UI: 90362765

Pasynkov EI, Konstantinova GD, Vlasova EI (1976) [Therapeutic use of alternating magnetic field in chronic diseases of the veins of the lower limbs - Article in Russian]. Vopr Kurortol Fizioter Lech Fiz Kult Sep;5:16-19. PMID: 1025854, UI: 77176520

Wound Healing

Kucherenko AE, Shevchuk VI (1976) [Treatment of various diseases of the limb stumps by alternating magnetic field –

various health problems

Strelkova NI, Maslovskaia SG, Gavrilkov AG, Strel'tsova EN (1983)

[Use of the EMF in patients after disturbance of cerebral circulation - Article in Russian]. Sov Med 5:35-38.

PMID: 6612459, UI: 83302409  

Ozinkovskii VV (1980) [Use of a low-frequency pulsing EMF in treating inflammatory diseases of the ENT organs –

[Article in Russian]. Zh Ushn Nos Gorl Bolezn May;3:51-53.

PMID: 7385978, UI: 80216160

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