What is pulsed magnetotherapy?
Magnetotherapy is a physical therapy method in which the pulsed magnetic field generated by the device passes through the tissues and may exert its effect at cellular level. This technology brings modern medicine and physics together. You can learn more about how the method works in the magnetotherapy (PEMF) guide.
Key point
The pulsed magnetic field passes through the tissues of the knee and may support regeneration at cellular level — without you feeling the treatment in any way. It can be used at home, painlessly and without medication.
When can PEMF help the knee?
According to scientific research, PEMF therapy may support several common knee problems that you may encounter in everyday life:1,2,3
- Joint wear (arthrosis): Pain and stiffness caused by wear of the cartilage in the knee joint are among the most typical cases – especially when osteoporosis is also present. PEMF may help ease chronic pain and may have a favourable effect on joint mobility.
- Sports or overuse injuries: In the case of sprains, strains or minor inflammation – such as irritation of the ligaments or tendons of the knee – the magnetic field may support the regeneration processes.
- Chronic joint inflammation: Conditions such as bursitis or tendonitis that cause persistent pain.
- Post-operative rehabilitation: During recovery after a more serious procedure, such as knee surgery or a femoral neck fracture, the therapy may contribute to reducing swelling, easing pain and supporting recovery.
What does the research show?
The effectiveness of PEMF therapy has been examined in several randomised controlled clinical trials involving patients with knee osteoarthritis.
A 2020 systematic review and meta-analysis that analysed 16 placebo-controlled trials found that PEMF therapy had a favourable effect on pain, stiffness and physical function in patients living with osteoarthritis.1
A 2024 randomised controlled trial involving 60 patients with end-stage knee osteoarthritis showed that combining PEMF therapy with home exercises supported improvements in muscle strength and pain reduction more effectively than exercises alone.2
Another double-blind, placebo-controlled study from 2015 found significant improvements in pain, stiffness and daily activities among 57 patients living with knee osteoarthritis in the PEMF group compared with the placebo group.3
How is home treatment carried out?
One of the greatest advantages of pulsed magnetotherapy at home is that it is very simple and comfortable. No complicated preparation or outside help is needed.
- Choose a suitable time: Find a period when you can sit or lie down calmly for about 20-30 minutes.
- Get comfortable: Sit in an armchair or lie on the bed.
- Position the treatment device: Place the magnetic coils over the painful area of your knee. The coils should be placed on opposite sides of the knee – either at the sides or front and back. Secure them with the hook-and-loop strap.
- Connect and start the device: Connect the treatment device cables to the main unit and switch it on. In the menu, select the knee pain / knee arthritis or joint pain programme and start it.
- Rest during the treatment: The programme runs automatically and switches off when the treatment ends. You can read, watch television or simply rest during the session.
The frequency of treatment depends on your condition, but generally 1-2 sessions a day are recommended during the initial intensive phase.
What can you expect from the therapy?
Pulsed magnetotherapy is a method that provides longer-term support, not an immediate painkiller. Based on the research, you may expect the following:
| Period | Expected changes |
|---|---|
| First few days | You may find that the joint feels looser in the hours after treatment, or that you fall asleep more easily at night. |
| 1-3 weeks | Pain may gradually ease, morning stiffness in the joint may lessen, and range of movement may generally increase. |
| 4-6 weeks and beyond | After a full course, many people report more lasting improvement. It is worth repeating the course from time to time to maintain the effect. |
Important
Chronic knee problems did not develop overnight, so regeneration also needs time. Magnetotherapy relies on regular use and perseverance.
Before you start treatment
For safe use, it is important to know the contraindications. If any of the conditions below applies to you, consult your doctor before starting PEMF therapy!
When must you NOT use it?
Do NOT use the magnetotherapy device if you have:
- An implanted cardiac pacemaker or defibrillator
- An insulin pump or another active implant
- Pregnancy (especially over the abdomen)
- Active bleeding or a severe blood-clotting disorder
- Active cancer
- Severe cardiac arrhythmia
- Epilepsy
- Acute infection with fever
Important note
Metal implants in the knee, such as a knee replacement, generally are not a contraindication – in fact, PEMF may also support implant integration. Discuss this with your doctor!
Possible side effects
PEMF therapy is generally well tolerated, and side effects are rare and mild. The following may occur:
- Mild redness in the treated area (it disappears within minutes)
- A temporary feeling of muscle fatigue
- Rarely, mild headache or dizziness
- Pain may temporarily increase after the first few treatments (this may be the body’s response and usually subsides)
If you have persistent or unusual symptoms, stop the treatment and consult your doctor!
Recommended devices
For home treatment of knee pain, we recommend the following magnetotherapy devices:
Magnum L
Simple, reliable home PEMF therapy with 8 programmes.
Magnum XL
With an expanded range of programmes.
Magnum 3000 Pro
Professional PEMF device with 70 rehabilitation programmes.
Consult your doctor or physical therapist to develop the best treatment plan!
Summary – Quick overview
- PEMF therapy: Supports tissue regeneration with a pulsed magnetic field
- Home use: 20-30 minute treatments, 1-2 times a day
- Combined approach: Can be used together with physiotherapy and medication
Frequently asked questions
You may feel the first changes after a few days, but lasting improvement generally takes 4-6 weeks of regular treatment.
Generally yes, but discuss it with your doctor, especially if you have recently had surgery.
Generally 1-2 sessions a day, lasting 20-30 minutes each. After the intensive phase, maintenance treatment may be sufficient.
No. PEMF therapy is a complementary method. It does not replace specialist care, medication or any surgery that may be necessary.
Sources
- Yang X, He H, Ye W, Perry TA, He C. (2020). Effects of Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy on Pain, Stiffness, Physical Function, and Quality of Life in Patients With Osteoarthritis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trials. Physical Therapy. PubMed: 32251502
- Chen C, et al. (2024). The effects of pulsed electromagnetic field therapy on muscle strength and pain in patients with end-stage knee osteoarthritis: a randomized controlled trial. Frontiers in Medicine. PubMed: 39478814
- Wuschech H, et al. (2015). Effects of PEMF on patients with osteoarthritis: Results of a prospective, placebo-controlled, double-blind study. Bioelectromagnetics. PubMed: 26562074
- Iannitti T, et al. (2013). Pulsed electromagnetic field therapy for management of osteoarthritis-related pain, stiffness and physical function: clinical experience in the elderly. Clinical Interventions in Aging. PubMed: 24106421
- Serradilla-García J, et al. (2024). Current Evidence Using Pulsed Electromagnetic Fields in Osteoarthritis: A Systematic Review. Bioengineering. PubMed: 38610722
Related articles
- Magnetotherapy (PEMF) – a guide to home use
- Osteoporosis and magnetotherapy – complementary home treatment
- Bone fracture healing and magnetotherapy – complementary treatment at home
- Femoral neck fracture and magnetotherapy – how can PEMF support healing?
- Supporting implant integration with magnetotherapy
- BEMER therapy and its effects – what is the difference from traditional PEMF?
