A 2020 systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated 16 randomized, placebo-controlled trials (15 included in meta-analysis), investigating the effects of pulsed electromagnetic field therapy on osteoarthritis symptoms like pain, stiffness, physical function, and quality of life.
- Pain reduction: Standardized mean difference (SMD) = 1.06 (95% CI, 0.61–1.51)
- Stiffness improvement: SMD = 0.37 (95% CI, 0.07–0.67)
- Physical function enhancement: SMD = 0.46 (95% CI, 0.14–0.78)
- QOL: SMD = 1.49 (95% CI, –0.06–3.04)
PEMF therapy shows clinically significant short-term benefits for patients with osteoarthritis, particularly in reducing pain, stiffness, and improving physical function.
