17/12/2022
**PEMF Therapy for Parkinson’s Disease**
Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (PEMF) therapy has been repeatedly studied and applied in clinical settings as an alternative treatment for Parkinson’s disease (PD). This therapy is recognized for its neuroprotective effects, which may help alleviate the symptoms of Parkinson’s. To better understand how PEMF therapy works and its benefits, it's important to first explore what Parkinson’s disease involves.
Parkinson’s disease is a common neurological disorder, and its incidence has been rising. Research links Parkinson’s disease to neurotoxicity, often attributed to significant pollution experienced during the 20th century.
According to the American Association of Neurological Surgeons, Parkinson’s disease is a progressive brain disorder caused by the degeneration of nerve cells in a brain area known as the substantia nigra. This degeneration disrupts hormonal and neurotransmitter functions, leading to symptoms such as tremors, rigidity, decreased flexibility, slowed movement, and impaired balance and coordination. Experts believe that this area of the brain becomes hyperactive due to the loss of dopamine in individuals with Parkinson’s.
**How Does PEMF Therapy Work?**
PEMF therapy involves the application of safe, non-invasive pulsating magnetic fields to promote regenerative and functional improvements. When these fields are applied to the brain—a process known as transcranial magnetic stimulation—they enhance cellular oxygenation by improving circulation and stimulating mitochondria (the powerhouses of cells). These effects help accelerate cellular regeneration and repair.
PEMF therapy devices have evolved over more than six decades of research, supported by thousands of studies and numerous clinical trials. Various terms are used to describe brain-stimulating magnetic fields, including T-PEMF (transcranial PEMF), PEMF, TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation), rTMS (repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation), and EMS (Electro-Magnetic Stimulation). While these technologies share similarities, they primarily differ in intensity and coil design. Therefore, when researching the treatment of Parkinson’s disease with PEMF therapy, it is essential to consider studies involving all these electromagnetic therapy technologies.
**PEMF Therapy Research for Parkinson’s Disease**
Several studies indicate that PEMF therapy improves both gross and fine motor functions, as well as cognitive abilities. Pulsed magnetic fields exhibit significant molecular effects that alter the reactivity of molecules (specifically free radicals). A reduction in free radicals can lead to decreased inflammation and a slowdown in age-related degeneration. Moreover, PEMF therapy has been shown to alleviate depression, which affects up to 40% of patients with Parkinson’s disease.
Research on the effects of PEMF therapy for Parkinson’s disease has been published since the early 1990s.
In 1996, Dr. Reuven Sandyk from the Department of Neuroscience at the Institute for Biomedical Engineering and Rehabilitation Services of Touro College in New York treated a 73-year-old patient with a 10-year history of Parkinson’s disease using PEMF therapy. Remarkably, within a week of treatment, the patient experienced a near-complete disappearance of tremors, start hesitation, and freezing of gait. Additionally, the patient regained the ability to draw better and could sign their name again.
In 1999, Dr. Sandyk discovered that AC PEMF therapy improved olfactory function in individuals with Parkinson’s disease. He found that 7 Hz stimulation effectively addressed olfactory dysfunction, a symptom often overlooked in treatment. Improvements in the sense of smell and yawning are significant indicators of disease status, and their enhancement suggests the treatment is effective.
Dr. Sandyk has published multiple studies and is considered a pioneering researcher in exploring the effects of PEMF therapy on Parkinson’s disease. In addition to the findings mentioned, he also noted improvements in speech impairment and restless leg syndrome as additional benefits of PEMF therapy.
A joint research review published in 2015 investigated the mechanisms and therapeutic applications of electromagnetic therapy in Parkinson’s disease. Conducted by reputable researchers from Italy, Mexico, and the UK, the review concluded that PEMFs improve symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, including tremors, slowness of movement, and walking difficulties. It emphasized that PEMF therapy is non-invasive, safe, and enhances the quality of life for patients with Parkinson’s disease.
Another extensive review involving 470 Parkinson’s disease patients in 2015 concluded that rTMS effectively improves motor symptoms and tremor control in individuals with the condition.
In 2018, universities in Denmark conducted a randomized clinical trial to study the benefits of PEMF therapy for Parkinson’s disease, applying 30-minute sessions of the treatment.