Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (PEMF) therapy is a cutting-edge treatment that uses low-frequency electromagnetic fields in a pulsed manner. Its effectiveness in various clinical conditions, such as promoting bone healing, reducing pain and inflammation, and enhancing neurological functions, has contributed to its rising popularity (Markov, 2007). PEMF therapy is highly tolerable, non-invasive, and has minimal side effects, making it easy to use and suitable for self-administration (Raji and Bowden, 1982). By altering cellular behavior, such as enhancing signal transduction pathways and modulating cell surface receptor activity, PEMF holds significant therapeutic potential (Monache et al., 2013).
One study conducted by Hattapoğlu et al. (2019) explored the effects of PEMF therapy on pain, disability, psychological state, and quality of life in patients with cervical disc herniation (CDH). The study involved 64 participants who were randomly divided into two groups. Group 1 received a combination of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), hot pack (HP), and PEMF therapy, while Group 2 received a sham magnetic field in addition to TENS and HP therapy. The treatment program was administered five days a week for three weeks.
The study used the Nottingham Health Profile (NHP) questionnaire to assess the quality of life, including sleep quality. Results indicated that the addition of PEMF therapy to the conventional physical therapy program improved both pain and sleep quality in patients with CDH by the 12th week. However, its additional contribution to overall function, general quality of life, anxiety, and depression was not significant. The authors suggested that the improvement in sleep quality might be linked to the reduction in pain, as poor sleep quality is strongly associated with chronic pain.
These findings highlight the potential of PEMF therapy to enhance sleep quality, particularly for individuals suffering from conditions like CDH. By reducing pain, PEMF therapy may help break the cycle of pain-induced sleep disturbances, offering a promising non-invasive solution for better sleep.
