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Electromagnetic stimulation of the phrenic nerve induces diaphragm contractions, but no coils for clinical use have been available. We recently demonstrated the feasibility of ventilation using bilateral transcutaneous noninvasive electromagnetic phrenic nerve stimulation (NEPNS) before surgery in lung-healthy patients with healthy weight in a dose-dependent manner. Is NEPNS feasible in critically ill patients in an ICU setting? This feasibility nonrandomized controlled study aimed to enroll patients within 36 h of intubation who were expected to remain ventilated for ≥ 72 h. The intervention group received 15-min bilateral transcutaneous NEPNS bid, whereas the control group received standard care. If sufficient, NEPNS was used without pressure support to ventilate the patient; pressure support was added if necessary to ventilate the patient adequately. The primary outcome was feasibility, measured as time to find the optimal stimulation position. Further end points were sessions performed according to the protocol or allowing a next-day catch-up session and tidal volume achieved with stimulation reaching only 3 to 6 mL/kg ideal body weight (IBW). A secondary end point was expiratory diaphragm thickness measured with ultrasound from days 1 to 10 (or extubation). The revised European Union regulation mandated reapproval of medical devices, prematurely halting the study. Eleven patients (five in the intervention group, six in the control group) were enrolled. The median time to find an adequate stimulation position was 23 s (interquartile range, 12-62 s). The intervention bid was executed in 87% of patients, and 92% of patients including a next-day catch-up session. Ventilation with 3 to 6 mL/kg IBW was achieved in 732 of 1,701 stimulations (43.0%) with stimulation only and in 2,511 of 4,036 stimulations (62.2%) with additional pressure support. A decrease in diaphragm thickness was prevented by bilateral NEPNS (P =.034) until day 10. Bilateral transcutaneous NEPNS was feasible in the ICU setting with the potential benefit of preventing diaphragm atrophy during mechanical ventilation. NEPNS ventilation effectiveness needs further assessment. ClinicalTrials.gov ; No.: NCT05238753 ; URL: www.clinicaltrials.gov [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Background: Low back pain is a globally prevalent musculoskeletal issue. Repetitive peripheral magnetic stimulation (rPMS) is emerging as a promising modality for managing musculoskeletal pain, while ultrasound-guided lumbar facet/multifidus injections are a potential therapeutic option for low back pain. This study explores the feasibility of combining these two treatments for managing low back pain. Materials and Methods: Ultrasound-guided injections were administered using 5 mL of 50% dextrose and 5 mL of 1% lidocaine. Bilateral injections targeted the L4/L5 and L5/S1 facet joints with 1 mL at each site, and the remaining 8 mL was distributed over the multifidus muscles using peppering techniques. Following injections, rPMS therapy was conducted with the TESLA Stym® device, targeting the bilateral lumbosacral region over 12 sessions. Pain intensity was measured using the visual analog scale (VAS), and disability was assessed with the Oswestry disability index (ODI) at baseline, after six sessions, and after 12 sessions of rPMS. Results: Three participants were enrolled. Baseline VAS and ODI scores were 8.33 ± 0.29 cm and 49.63 ± 1.28%, respectively. After six rPMS sessions, VAS and ODI scores changed to 4.33 ± 3.75 cm and 21.48 ± 19.42%, respectively. After 12 sessions, VAS decreased to 0.83 ± 1.44 cm and ODI to 5.19 ± 8.98%. Significant differences were observed between baseline and final assessments. Conclusion: Combining ultrasound-guided lumbar facet/multifidus injections with rPMS shows promise for treating low back pain. However, long-term efficacy and comparison with conventional treatments require further investigation through prospective randomized controlled trials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Low back pain that lasts longer than three months is called chronic low back pain. Chronic low back pain is among the most common problems in the world, causing severe disability and loss of employment in patients. Objective: To investigate the effect of pulse electromagnetic field therapy (PEMFT) added to routine physical therapy on pain and functional status in patients with chronic low back pain. Methods: This retrospective comparative study included 69 patients with chronic low back pain. The patients were divided into two groups: those who received lumbar transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, infrared, and ultrasound treatments, and those who additionally received PEMFT. The files of patients with chronic low back pain were reviewed, and those who had been evaluated using the Quebec Back Pain Disability Scale (QBPDS) in terms of functional capacity and effects of low back pain and the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for pain both before and after treatment were included in the study. Results: No significant difference was detected between the two groups' pretreatment VAS and QBPDS scores (p > 0.05). The second-and-third measurement scores of both groups were significantly lower than their first-measurement VAS and QBPDS scores (p ˂ 0.001), but there was no significant difference between their second- and third-measurement scores (p > 0.05). According to the inter-group comparison of the VAS and QBPDS scores, the second and third-measurement scores of the PEMFT group were significantly lower than those of the control group (p ˂ 0.001). Conclusions: PEMFT seems to be able to alleviate pain intensity and ameliorate disability in patients with chronic low back pain. PEMFT can be considered an effective and safe option that can be added to routine physical therapy modalities for relieving chronic low back pain frequently encountered in clinical practice. Further studies validating the effectiveness of PEMFT could strengthen its position in the management of chronic low back pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AbstractA standard magnetic field generation system from 1 to 30 μT between DC and 20 kHz has been demonstrated for the calibration of DC/AC magnetometers. The system includes a laboratory-designed Helmholtz coil, shunt resistor, digital multimeter, and dedicated power source. The DC coil constant of the Helmholtz coil was determined to be 10.586 μT/A using a single-axis fluxgate magnetometer. The homogeneity analysis was carried out for the Helmholtz coil to identify the uniformity along the x, y, and z axes. The system for DC generation was standardized and compared by measuring the field values using a single-axis fluxgate magnetometer. Further, the system was validated for AC generation by a search coil with a known turn area (1.3767 ± 0.0027 m2). Moreover, the measured magnetic field values using a search coil were compared with a commercial magnetometer to identify the variation in generated and measured magnetic fields. The described system can have significant utilities in calibration, electromagnetic interference electromagnetic interference/electromagnetic compatibility (EMI/EMC) testing, magnetic susceptibility testing, and magnetic field therapy applications. The expanded uncertainty of the Helmholtz coil in generating a magnetic field was 0.2–1.6% (at k = 2) from DC to 20 kHz. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Carpal tunnel syndrome is a frequently observed condition affecting the wrists and fingers, characterized by numbness, tingling, and sometimes pain. Objective: To evaluate and compare the efficiency of magnetic field therapy and ultrasound therapy in rehabilitating women with carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). Patients and Methods: Forty women with mild to moderate CTS were included in the study, and an electromyography (EMG) and examination confirmed the diagnosis. The participants were assigned into two groups. Group A received magnetic field therapy, and Group B received ultrasound therapy. Patients for each group received a six-session clinical evaluation. The outcomes included the Boston Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Questionnaire (BCTSQ), handgrip strength, wrist joint movements (flexion and extension), as well as the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). Results: The paired t-test analyses demonstrate a significant improvement in the Boston questionnaire and VAS in both intervention groups at a P-value ≤0.05. The independent sample t-test analysis for post-intervention for both groups showed superiority for magnetic field therapy; no significant differences were observed in the improvement of wrist movement (Flexion = 0.66, Extension = 0.71); the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) has been improved in both treatment groups with dominance for ultrasound therapy. Conclusion: Both magnetic field and ultrasound therapy effectively treat women with carpal tunnel syndrome. Magnetic field therapy was statistically superior to ultrasound. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In light of the unsuccessful traditional therapies for Parkinson's disease (PD) overmany years, there is an unmet need for the development of novel therapies to alleviate the symptoms of PD retardation or halt the progression of the disease itself. This systematic review aims to critically update some of the most promising novel treatments including gene therapy, cell-based therapies, targeted drug delivery, and neuroprotective agents, focusing on their challenges, limitations and future directions in PD research. Gene therapy in PD is encouraging, with AAV-based approaches targeting neurotrophic factors, dopamine production, and neuronal circuits in animal and clinical trials. A promising approach to targeted drug delivery for PD involves the use of nanotechnology to create drug delivery vehicles that can traverse the blood–brain barrier and deliver medications specifically to the regions of the brain affected by PD. Neuroprotective agents are compounds that have the ability to protect neurons from degeneration and death, and they hold great promise for the evolution of disease-modifying treatments for PD. Magnetic field therapy is a promising non-invasive method that promotes neural plasticity in PD. The establishment of standardized protocols for animal and human studies, safety, ethical considerations, and cost-effectiveness are the major challenges for the future research of novel PD therapies. The development of novel therapies for PD represents a promising path toward to effective personalized disease-modifying treatments for PD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To evaluate the 3-month effects of pulsed electromagnetic field therapy (PEMF) in the treatment of subacromial impingement syndrome (SIS). Planned analysis of a randomized controlled trial with 4- and 12-week follow-ups. Physical medicine and rehabilitation clinic, treatment unit. Of the 250 individuals screened for eligibility, participants with a diagnosis of SIS (N=80) were randomized to intervention or control groups. The first group received PEMF + exercise and the second group received sham PEMF + exercise 5 days a week for a total of 20 sessions. Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Constant Murley Score (CMS), Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI), Short Form-36 (SF-36) Quality of Life Questionnaire, and shoulder muscle strength measurement with an isokinetic dynamometer. Evaluations were performed before treatment (T0), after treatment (T1), and 12th week (T2). Evaluation at T1 and T2 showed improvement in most parameters in both groups compared with baseline. In the comparison between the 2 groups at T1 and T2, more improvement was found in the PEMF group in most parameters. In our study, PEMF was found to be superior to sham PEMF in terms of pain, ROM, functionality, and quality of life at the first and third months. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Myocardial infarction (MI) is a major cause of mortality worldwide. The major limitation of regenerative therapy for MI is poor cardiac retention of therapeutics, which results from an inefficient vascular network and poor targeting ability. In this study, a two‐layer intrinsically magnetic epicardial patch (MagPatch) prepared by 3D printing with biocompatible materials like poly (glycerol sebacate) (PGS) is designed, poly (ε‐caprolactone) (PCL), and NdFeB. The two‐layer structure ensured that the MagPatch multifariously utilized the magnetic force for rapid vascular reconstruction and targeted drug delivery. MagPatch accumulates superparamagnetic iron oxide (SPION)‐labelled endothelial cells, instantly forming a ready‐implanted organization, and rapidly reconstructs a vascular network anastomosed with the host. In addition, the prefabricated vascular network within the MagPatch allowed for the efficient accumulation of SPION‐labelled therapeutics, amplifying the therapeutic effects of cardiac repair. This study defined an extendable therapeutic platform for vascularization‐based targeted drug delivery that is expected to assist in the progress of regenerative therapies in clinical applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Impaired upper extremity (UE) motor function is a common disability after ischemic stroke. Exposure to extremely low frequency and low intensity electromagnetic fields (ELF-EMF) in a frequency-specific manner (Electromagnetic Network Targeting Field therapy; ENTF therapy) is a non-invasive method available to a wide range of patients that may enhance neuroplasticity, potentially facilitating motor recovery. This study seeks to quantify the benefit of the ENTF therapy on UE motor function in a subacute ischemic stroke population. METHODS: In a randomized, sham-controlled, double-blind trial, ischemic stroke patients in the subacute phase with moderately to severely impaired UE function were randomly allocated to active or sham treatment with a novel, non-invasive, brain computer interface-based, extremely low frequency and low intensity ENTF therapy (1-100 Hz, < 1 G). Participants received 40 min of active ENTF or sham treatment 5 days/week for 8 weeks; ~three out of the five treatments were accompanied by 10 min of concurrent physical/occupational therapy. Primary efficacy outcome was improvement on the Fugl-Meyer Assessment - Upper Extremity (FMA-UE) from baseline to end of treatment (8 weeks). RESULTS: In the per protocol set (13 ENTF and 8 sham participants), mean age was 54.7 years (±15.0), 19% were female, baseline FMA-UE score was 23.7 (±11.0), and median time from stroke onset to first stimulation was 11 days (interquartile range (IQR) 8-15). Greater improvement on the FMA-UE from baseline to week 4 was seen with ENTF compared to sham stimulation, 23.2 ± 14.1 vs. 9.6 ± 9.0, p = 0.007; baseline to week 8 improvement was 31.5 ± 10.7 vs. 23.1 ± 14.1. Similar favorable effects at week 8 were observed for other UE and global disability assessments, including the Action Research Arm Test (Pinch, 13.4 ± 5.6 vs. 5.3 ± 6.5, p = 0.008), Box and Blocks Test (affected hand, 22.5 ± 12.4 vs. 8.5 ± 8.6, p < 0.0001), and modified Rankin Scale (-2.5 ± 0.7 vs. -1.3 ± 0.7, p = 0.0005). No treatment-related adverse events were reported. CONCLUSIONS: ENTF stimulation in subacute ischemic stroke patients was associated with improved UE motor function and reduced overall disability, and results support its safe use in the indicated population. These results should be confirmed in larger multicenter studies. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04039178, identifier: NCT04039178.

Abstract Background Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is a common complication of diabetes mellitus (DM) that can cause annoying symptoms. To address this condition, several treatment approaches have been proposed, including static magnetic field (SMF) therapy, which has shown promise in treating neurological conditions. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effects of SMF therapy on symptomatic DPN and the quality of life (QoL) in patients with type 2 diabetes. Methods A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial was conducted from April to October 2021. Sixty-four DPN patients (20 males, 44 females) were recruited for the study via invitation. The participants were divided into two groups: the magnet group, which used magnetic ankle bracelets (155 mT) for 12 weeks, and the sham group, which used non-magnetic ankle bracelets for the same duration. Neuropathy Symptom Score (NSS), Neuropathic Disability Score (NDS), and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) were used to assess neuropathy symptoms and pain. In addition, the Neuropathy Specific Quality of Life Questionnaire (Neuro-QoL) tool was used to measure the patients’ quality of life. Results Before treatment, there were no significant differences between the magnet and sham groups in terms of the NSS scores (P = 0.50), NDS scores (P = 0.74), VAS scores (P = 0.17), and Neuro-QoL scores (P = 0.82). However, after 12 weeks of treatment, the SMF exposure group showed a significant reduction in NSS scores (P

Abstract Myocardial infarction (MI) is a major cause of mortality worldwide. The major limitation of regenerative therapy for MI is poor cardiac retention of therapeutics, which results from an inefficient vascular network and poor targeting ability. In this study, a two‐layer intrinsically magnetic epicardial patch (MagPatch) prepared by 3D printing with biocompatible materials like poly (glycerol sebacate) (PGS) is designed, poly (ε‐caprolactone) (PCL), and NdFeB. The two‐layer structure ensured that the MagPatch multifariously utilized the magnetic force for rapid vascular reconstruction and targeted drug delivery. MagPatch accumulates superparamagnetic iron oxide (SPION)‐labelled endothelial cells, instantly forming a ready‐implanted organization, and rapidly reconstructs a vascular network anastomosed with the host. In addition, the prefabricated vascular network within the MagPatch allowed for the efficient accumulation of SPION‐labelled therapeutics, amplifying the therapeutic effects of cardiac repair. This study defined an extendable therapeutic platform for vascularization‐based targeted drug delivery that is expected to assist in the progress of regenerative therapies in clinical applications.

Shortwave and microwave diathermy devices are commonly used in physical therapy as heating treatment. The rise in temperature occurs due to the flow of electric current in the treated area. Ions are evenly distributed in a predicted pattern from skin to deeper tissues. We hypothesise that the diathermy physiotherapy devices (DPDs) can be repurposed as a means of neutralisation of the Rabies virus (RABV) by exploiting the generated electric charges. In order to minimise the ohmic heating of the tissue, the pulsed output of the diathermy devices is preferred where the 'on' time of active energy emission is considerably shorter than the 'off' time. RABV proteins mediating cell invasion, cytoplasmic replication and budding, contain polar components that can be adversely affected by nonthermal electric phenomena. Repurposed DPDs can replace the Rabies immunoglobulin (RIG) by targeting the site of inoculation i.e. the area of the animal bite, provided that the delivered electric charges can reduce pathogenicity by altering key viral proteins. The modality is advantageous compared to conventional RIG since it can theoretically neutralise all Lyssavirus species, is not limited by the compartment syndrome, can intercept RABV even after it gains access to the peripheral neural network where conventional post-exposure prophylaxis is ineffective and is cost-effective in the long term. The principle of physical alteration of vulnerable proteins by electricity delivered by electromagnetic radiation is not limited to RABV, but may be applied to a spectrum of viral pathogens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite encouraging advances in early diagnosis and treatment, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remained a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Increasing evidence has shown that the electromagnetic field (EMF) influences many biological processes, which has attracted much attention for its potential therapeutic and diagnostic modalities in multiple diseases, such as musculoskeletal disorders and neurodegenerative diseases. Nonionizing EMF has been studied as a therapeutic or diagnostic tool in CVDs. In this review, we summarize the current literature ranging from in vitro to clinical studies focusing on the therapeutic potential (external EMF) and diagnostic potential (internal EMF generated from the heart) of EMF in CVDs. First, we provided an overview of the therapeutic potential of EMF and associated mechanisms in the context of CVDs, including cardiac arrhythmia, myocardial ischemia, atherosclerosis, and hypertension. Furthermore, we investigated the diagnostic and predictive value of magnetocardiography in CVDs. Finally, we discussed the critical steps necessary to translate this promising approach into clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mitohormesis is a process whereby mitochondrial stress responses, mediated by reactive oxygen species (ROS), act cumulatively to either instill survival adaptations (low ROS levels) or to produce cell damage (high ROS levels). The mitohormetic nature of extremely low-frequency electromagnetic field (ELF-EMF) exposure thus makes it susceptible to extraneous influences that also impinge on mitochondrial ROS production and contribute to the collective response. Consequently, magnetic stimulation paradigms are prone to experimental variability depending on diverse circumstances. The failure, or inability, to control for these factors has contributed to the existing discrepancies between published reports and in the interpretations made from the results generated therein. Confounding environmental factors include ambient magnetic fields, temperature, the mechanical environment, and the conventional use of aminoglycoside antibiotics. Biological factors include cell type and seeding density as well as the developmental, inflammatory, or senescence statuses of cells that depend on the prior handling of the experimental sample. Technological aspects include magnetic field directionality, uniformity, amplitude, and duration of exposure. All these factors will exhibit manifestations at the level of ROS production that will culminate as a unified cellular response in conjunction with magnetic exposure. Fortunately, many of these factors are under the control of the experimenter. This review will focus on delineating areas requiring technical and biological harmonization to assist in the designing of therapeutic strategies with more clearly defined and better predicted outcomes and to improve the mechanistic interpretation of the generated data, rather than on precise applications. This review will also explore the underlying mechanistic similarities between magnetic field exposure and other forms of biophysical stimuli, such as mechanical stimuli, that mutually induce elevations in intracellular calcium and ROS as a prerequisite for biological outcome. These forms of biophysical stimuli commonly invoke the activity of transient receptor potential cation channel classes, such as TRPC1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Mechanical ventilation has side effects such as ventilator-induced diaphragm dysfunction, resulting in prolonged intensive care unit length of stays. Artificially evoked diaphragmatic muscle contraction may potentially maintain diaphragmatic muscle function and thereby ameliorate or counteract ventilator-induced diaphragm dysfunction. We hypothesized that bilateral non-invasive electromagnetic phrenic nerve stimulation (NEPNS) results in adequate diaphragm contractions and consecutively in effective tidal volumes. Results This single-centre proof-of-concept study was performed in five patients who were 30 [IQR 21–33] years old, 60% (n = 3) females and undergoing elective surgery with general anaesthesia. Following anaesthesia and reversal of muscle relaxation, patients received bilateral NEPNS with different magnetic field intensities (10%, 20%, 30%, 40%); the stimulation was performed bilaterally with dual coils (connected to one standard clinical magnetic stimulator), specifically designed for bilateral non-invasive electromagnetic nerve stimulation. The stimulator with a maximal output of 2400 Volt, 160 Joule, pulse length 160 µs at 100% intensity was limited to 50% intensity, i.e. each single coil had a maximal output of 0.55 Tesla and 1200 Volt. There was a linear relationship between dosage (magnetic field intensity) and effect (tidal volume, primary endpoint, p

Background: Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is a common complication of diabetes mellitus (DM) that can cause annoying symptoms. To address this condition, several treatment approaches have been proposed, including static magnetic field (SMF) therapy, which has shown promise in treating neurological conditions. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the effects of SMF therapy on symptomatic DPN and the quality of life (QoL) in patients with type 2 diabetes. Methods: A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial was conducted from April to October 2021. Sixty-four DPN patients (20 males, 44 females) were recruited for the study via invitation. The participants were divided into two groups: the magnet group, which used magnetic ankle bracelets (155 mT) for 12 weeks, and the sham group, which used non-magnetic ankle bracelets for the same duration. Neuropathy Symptom Score (NSS), Neuropathic Disability Score (NDS), and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) were used to assess neuropathy symptoms and pain. In addition, the Neuropathy Specific Quality of Life Questionnaire (Neuro-QoL) tool was used to measure the patients' quality of life. Results: Before treatment, there were no significant differences between the magnet and sham groups in terms of the NSS scores (P = 0.50), NDS scores (P = 0.74), VAS scores (P = 0.17), and Neuro-QoL scores (P = 0.82). However, after 12 weeks of treatment, the SMF exposure group showed a significant reduction in NSS scores (P < 0.001), NDS scores (P < 0.001), VAS scores (P < 0.001), and Neuro-QoL scores (P < 0.001) compared to the baseline. The changes in the sham group, on the other hand, were not significant. Conclusion: According to obtained data, SMF therapy is recommended as an easy-to-use and drug-free method for reducing DPN symptoms and improving QoL in diabetic type-2 patients. Trial registration Registered at Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials: IRCT20210315050706N1, 2021/03/16. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To investigate the effects of extracorporeal magnetic stimulatioii in the treatment of CP/CPPS and provide evidence for clinical practice. Method Randomized controlled trials (RCTs)of extracorporeal magnetic stimulation in the treatment of CP/CPPS (2000-29th April 2022) were retrieved from Pubmed, EMBASE, the Cochrane library, Web of Science, CNKI and Wanfang. The data were collected by two individual analyzer and analyzed by Revman 5・ 4・ Results 5 RCTs with 364 patients with CP/CPPS were included for Meta-analysis. Compared with the control group, extracorporeal magnetic stimulation could improve NIH/CPSI [MD = 5> 61; 95% CI (- 7< 91, - 3. 31), P < 0. 000 01], and Qmax [MD =3.99; 95% CI (2.63, 5.35), P <0.000 01] significantly. However, no significant difference was found in IIEF-5 [MD = -0. 94; 95% CI (- 2> 08, 0. 21), P = 0. 11]・ Conclusioil Extracorporeal magnetic stimulation significantly improves symptoms of CP/CPPS, NIH-CPSI score and Qmax・ However, high-quality multicenter clinical trials with a laie sample size are needed to verify the results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Cuarzo (REC) is the property of Fundacion Universitaria Juan N. Corpas and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Introduction and hypothesis: Urinary incontinence (UI) affects approximately 50% of adult women worldwide and is associated with declining sexual function (SF). Energy-based devices emerged as a minimally invasive alternative treatment. Nevertheless, their effect on sexuality is uncertain. We hypothesize that the UI energy treatment can lead to sexual function improvement. Methods: A search was performed in PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Embase, and Scopus for randomized clinical trials (RCTs) and nonrandomized studies of intervention, which treated incontinent women using energy, with UI and sexual function (SF) as outcomes. Severe comorbidities, pelvic organ prolapse (POP)> grade 2, and use of medication to treat UI or that affects SF were excluded. Quality assessment and meta-analysis were performed. Results: From 322 articles, 11 RCTs were included for qualitative analysis. UI symptoms improved in all studies. Regarding SF, RCT with premenopausal women showed improvement in SF in the Er:Yag group (Pelvic Organ Prolapse/Urinary Incontinence Sexual Questionnaire-12 and Female Sexual Function Index). A prospective study showed improvement in SF independent of the grade of SUI. RF showed benefits for SF but was not superior to pelvic floor muscle training. One nonrandomized study of intervention with a High-Intensity Focused Electromagnetic Field showed significant improvement of SF in the Golombok Rust Inventory of Sexual Satisfaction total score, a decline in pain and dissatisfaction domains. Meta-analysis with 4 RCTs and 2 nonrandomized studies found no difference between groups (0.26 (95% CI −0.67 to 1.20, and −0.74 (95% CI −3.78 to 2.30) respectively). Conclusions: This meta-analysis did not confirm that energy equipment improved the SF of women with UI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To investigate the effects of extracorporeal magnetic stimulation in the treatment of CP/CPPS and provide evidence for clinical practice. Method Randomized controlled trials（RCTs）of extracorporeal magnetic stimulation in the treatment of CP/CPPS（2000-29th April 2022） were retrieved from Pubmed, EMBASE, the Cochrane library, Web of Science, CNKI and Wanfang. The data were collected by two individual analyzer and analyzed by Revman 5.4. Results 5 RCTs with 364 patients with CP/CPPS were included for Meta-analysis. Compared with the control group, extracorporeal magnetic stimulation could improve NIH/CPSI [MD=5.61; 95% CI（-7.91,-3.31）, P＜0.000 01], and Qmax [MD=3.99; 95% CI（2.63, 5.35）, P＜0.000 01] significantly. However, no significant difference was found in IIEF-5 [MD=-0.94; 95% CI（-2.08, 0.21）, P=0.11]. Conclusion Extracorporeal magnetic stimulation significantly improves symptoms of CP/CPPS, NIH-CPSI score and Qmax. However, high-quality multicenter clinical trials with a large sample size are needed to verify the results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Mechanical ventilation has side effects such as ventilator-induced diaphragm dysfunction, resulting in prolonged intensive care unit length of stays. Artificially evoked diaphragmatic muscle contraction may potentially maintain diaphragmatic muscle function and thereby ameliorate or counteract ventilator-induced diaphragm dysfunction. We hypothesized that bilateral non-invasive electromagnetic phrenic nerve stimulation (NEPNS) results in adequate diaphragm contractions and consecutively in effective tidal volumes. Results: This single-centre proof-of-concept study was performed in five patients who were 30 [IQR 21–33] years old, 60% (n = 3) females and undergoing elective surgery with general anaesthesia. Following anaesthesia and reversal of muscle relaxation, patients received bilateral NEPNS with different magnetic field intensities (10%, 20%, 30%, 40%); the stimulation was performed bilaterally with dual coils (connected to one standard clinical magnetic stimulator), specifically designed for bilateral non-invasive electromagnetic nerve stimulation. The stimulator with a maximal output of 2400 Volt, 160 Joule, pulse length 160 µs at 100% intensity was limited to 50% intensity, i.e. each single coil had a maximal output of 0.55 Tesla and 1200 Volt. There was a linear relationship between dosage (magnetic field intensity) and effect (tidal volume, primary endpoint, p < 0.001). Mean tidal volume was 0.00, 1.81 ± 0.99, 4.55 ± 2.23 and 7.43 ± 3.06 ml/kg ideal body weight applying 10%, 20%, 30% and 40% stimulation intensity, respectively. Mean time to find an initial adequate stimulation point was 89 (range 15–441) seconds. Conclusions: Bilateral non-invasive electromagnetic phrenic nerve stimulation generated a tidal volume of 3–6 ml/kg ideal body weight due to diaphragmatic contraction in lung-healthy anaesthetized patients. Further perspectives in critically ill patients should include assessment of clinical outcomes to confirm whether diaphragm contraction through non-invasive electromagnetic phrenic nerve stimulation potentially ameliorates or prevents diaphragm atrophy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In light of the unsuccessful traditional therapies for Parkinson’s disease (PD) overmany years, there is an unmet need for the development of novel therapies to alleviate the symptoms of PD retardation or halt the progression of the disease itself. This systematic review aims to critically update some of the most promising novel treatments including gene therapy, cell-based therapies, targeted drug delivery, and neuroprotective agents, focusing on their challenges, limitations and future directions in PD research. Gene therapy in PD is encouraging, with AAV-based approaches targeting neurotrophic factors, dopamine production, and neuronal circuits in animal and clinical trials. A promising approach to targeted drug delivery for PD involves the use of nanotechnology to create drug delivery vehicles that can traverse the blood–brain barrier and deliver medications specifically to the regions of the brain affected by PD. Neuroprotective agents are compounds that have the ability to protect neurons from degeneration and death, and they hold great promise for the evolution of disease-modifying treatments for PD. Magnetic field therapy is a promising non-invasive method that promotes neural plasticity in PD. The establishment of standardized protocols for animal and human studies, safety, ethical considerations, and cost-effectiveness are the major challenges for the future research of novel PD therapies. The development of novel therapies for PD represents a promising path toward to effective personalized disease-modifying treatments for PD.

Objective: Magnetic stimulation (MS) provides a novel strategy for the treatment of urinary incontinence (UI), although its efficacy remains uncertain. This systematic review both evaluated the effects of MS treatment on UI and investigated its impacts on female patients' life quality. Methods: A review of the literature that was conducted in EMBASE, PubMed, Google Scholar, and the Cochrane Library (2016–2021) with the search terms; Incontinence of stress OR urge of urination OR Urinary incontinence mixed type. The search was carried out for all randomised controlled trials (RCTs) in English. A manual search has also been conducted for the reference lists of the studies found. Seven studies, with a total of 523 patients (475 patients with SUI), 12 urge urinary incontinence. The study included patients with (UUI) and 36 patients with mixed urinary incontinence (MUI). A total of 10 male patients were excluded from the study. In the included studies, The International Incontinence Questionnaire-Short Form was used to investigate the effects of MS therapy on UI symptoms (ICIQ-SF). Results: According to the literature review, MS is an effective therapy option for female patients with UI. Still, to establish the efficacy of MS in this area, more large-scale, high-quality RCTs with extended follow-up periods that use consistent stimulation modalities and evaluate comparable outcomes are needed. Conclusion: MS treatment leads to an improvement in the symptoms of UI, in addition to an associated Improved quality of life for patients, without any reported side effects, while the longer-term treatment outcomes must be determined by long-term trials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is becoming increasingly common that patients' preferences move towards non-surgical approaches, such as pulsed magnetic stimulation, for female stress urinary incontinence. Objective: We evaluated the efficacy and safety of a device that uses electromagnetic technology to treat urinary incontinence, with an emphasis on health-related quality of life. Methods: A total of 47 female subjects from 18 to 80 years old were enrolled. After block randomization, treatment consisted of 2 pulsed planar magnetic stimulation sessions per week for 4 weeks (8 sessions). Validated questionnaires: Female Sexual Function Index, International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire for Urinary Incontinence: Short Form, and Pelvic Floor Bothersome. Follow-ups were performed at weeks 1, 9, and 14. Results: The present study is one of the first clinical trials published evaluating the efficacy and safety of the electromagnetism-based device with flat configuration in patients with stress urinary incontinence, showing a reduction in PFBQ, ICQSF, and Oxford test scores during follow-up, and significantly at week 14 of follow-up, which implied a favorable impact on clinical outcomes, quality of life, and sexuality. Conclusions: The improved results in the treatment group compared with the simulated group show that pulsed magnetic stimulation is a safe and attractive non-invasive alternative for patients who prefer non-surgical treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: 5-Fluorouracil (5FU) and Fe3O4 nanoparticles were encapsulated in core-shellpolycaprolactone (PCL)/chitosan (CS) nanofibers as a multi-mode anticancer system to studydrug release sustainability. The structure of the core-shell drug delivery system was alsooptimized according to drug release behavior by artificial intelligence.Methods: The core-shell nanofibers were electrospun by a coaxial syringe. Artificial neuralnetwork (ANN) was used for function approximation to estimate release parameters. A geneticalgorithm was then used for optimizing the structure. Chemical assay of the optimized samplewas performed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD),and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). vibration sample magnetometer (VSM) testwas conducted to measure the real amount of loaded magnetic nanoparticles. HepG2 cellcytotoxicity was studied and the results for the optimized samples with and without Fe3O4 after72 hours were reported.Results: Feeding ratio of sheath to core and the amount of CS, Fe3O4, and 5FU had a statisticaleffect on nanofibers diameters, which were 300-450 nm. The drug loading efficiency of thesenanofibers was 65-86%. ANN estimated the release parameters with an error of 10%. Thetemperature increased about 5.6°C in the alternative magnetic field (AMF) of 216 kA.m-1~300kHz and 4.8°C in the AMF of 154 kA.m-1~400 kHz after 20 minutes. HepG2 cell cytotoxicityfor the optimized samples with and without Fe3O4 after 72 hours were 39.7% and 38.8%,respectively.Conclusion: Since this core-shell drug release system was more sustainable compared to theblend structure despite the low half-life of 5FU, it is suggested to utilize it as post-surgicalimplants for various cancer treatments such as liver or colorectal cancer in the future. Thissystem is capable of providing chemotherapy and hyperthermia simultaneously.

Mitohormesis is a process whereby mitochondrial stress responses, mediated by reactive oxygen species (ROS), act cumulatively to either instill survival adaptations (low ROS levels) or to produce cell damage (high ROS levels). The mitohormetic nature of extremely low-frequency electromagnetic field (ELF-EMF) exposure thus makes it susceptible to extraneous influences that also impinge on mitochondrial ROS production and contribute to the collective response. Consequently, magnetic stimulation paradigms are prone to experimental variability depending on diverse circumstances. The failure, or inability, to control for these factors has contributed to the existing discrepancies between published reports and in the interpretations made from the results generated therein. Confounding environmental factors include ambient magnetic fields, temperature, the mechanical environment, and the conventional use of aminoglycoside antibiotics. Biological factors include cell type and seeding density as well as the developmental, inflammatory, or senescence statuses of cells that depend on the prior handling of the experimental sample. Technological aspects include magnetic field directionality, uniformity, amplitude, and duration of exposure. All these factors will exhibit manifestations at the level of ROS production that will culminate as a unified cellular response in conjunction with magnetic exposure. Fortunately, many of these factors are under the control of the experimenter. This review will focus on delineating areas requiring technical and biological harmonization to assist in the designing of therapeutic strategies with more clearly defined and better predicted outcomes and to improve the mechanistic interpretation of the generated data, rather than on precise applications. This review will also explore the underlying mechanistic similarities between magnetic field exposure and other forms of biophysical stimuli, such as mechanical stimuli, that mutually induce elevations in intracellular calcium and ROS as a prerequisite for biological outcome. These forms of biophysical stimuli commonly invoke the activity of transient receptor potential cation channel classes, such as TRPC1.

Patients with chronic spinal cord injury (SCI) cannot urinate at will and must empty the bladder by self-catheterization. We tested the hypothesis that non-invasive, transcutaneous magnetic spinal cord stimulation (TMSCS) would improve bladder function in individuals with SCI. Five individuals with American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale A/B, chronic SCI and detrusor sphincter dyssynergia enrolled in this prospective, interventional study. After a two-week assessment to determine effective stimulation characteristics, each patient received sixteen weekly TMSCS treatments and then received "sham" weekly stimulation for six weeks while bladder function was monitored. Bladder function improved in all five subjects, but only during and after repeated weekly sessions of 1 Hz TMSCS. All subjects achieved volitional urination. The volume of urine produced voluntarily increased from 0 cc/day to 1120 cc/day (p = 0.03); self-catheterization frequency decreased from 6.6/day to 2.4/day (p = 0.04); the capacity of the bladder increased from 244 ml to 404 ml (p = 0.02); and the average quality of life ranking increased significantly (p = 0.007). Volitional bladder function was re-enabled in five individuals with SCI following intermittent, non-invasive TMSCS. We conclude that neuromodulation of spinal micturition circuitry by TMSCS may be used to ameliorate bladder function.

Inflammatory cytokines play a dominant role in the pathogenesis of disc degeneration. Pulsed electromagnetic fields (PEMF) are noninvasive biophysical stimulus that has been used extensively in the orthopaedic field for many years. However, the specific cellular responses and mechanisms involved are still unclear. The objective of this study was to assess the time-dependent PEMF effects on pro-inflammatory factor IL-6 expression in disc nucleus pulposus cells using a novel green fluorescence protein (GFP) reporter system. An MS2-tagged GFP reporter system driven by IL-6 promoter was constructed to visualize PEMF treatment effect on IL-6 transcription in single living cells. IL-6-MS2 reporter-labeled cells were treated with IL-1α to mimic the in situ inflammatory environment of degenerative disc while simultaneously exposed to PEMF continuously for 4 h. Time-lapse imaging was recorded using a confocal microscope to track dynamic IL-6 transcription activity that was demonstrated by GFP. Finally, real-time RT-PCR was performed to confirm the imaging data. Live cell imaging demonstrated that pro-inflammatory factor IL-1α significantly promoted IL-6 transcription over time as compared with DMEM basal medium condition. Imaging and PCR data demonstrated that the inductive effect of IL-1α on IL-6 expression could be significantly inhibited by PEMF treatment in a time-dependent manner (early as 2 h of stimulus initiation). Our data suggest that PEMF may have a role in the clinical management of patients with chronic low back pain. Furthermore, this study shows that the MS2-tagged GFP reporter system is a useful tool for visualizing the dynamic events of mechanobiology in musculoskeletal research. © 2017 The Authors. Journal of Orthopaedic Research® Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of Orthopaedic Research Society. J Orthop Res 35:778-787, 2018.

This bibliometric study investigates the research landscape of magnetotherapy, also known as magnetic field therapy, which utilizes magnetic fields to promote healing, reduce pain, and improve overall health and well-being. The study uses bibliographic data from Scopus and employs Biblioshiny and CiteSpace for analysis. Key aspects examined include annual scientific production, most relevant authors, co-citation of cited authors, most relevant sources, countries' scientific production, and collaborations. Additional analyses feature a historiograph, trend topics, thematic maps, and keywords with the strongest citation bursts. Findings highlight significant trends in research activity, identify influential contributors, and map out collaborative networks in the field. The study reveals a noticeable absence of long-term studies and standardized treatment protocols in magnetotherapy research. Identified research gaps indicate the need for interdisciplinary studies and a deeper mechanistic understanding of magnetotherapy. Practical implications emphasize the potential for enhanced clinical applications, healthcare policy integration, and medical device innovations. The study underscores the importance of educational and training programs for healthcare professionals. Addressing these gaps and leveraging practical implications can significantly advance the field of magnetotherapy., Competing Interests: Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work., (Copyright © 2024, M N et al.)

Objective: Tendinopathies are diseases that often entail long-term treatment consisting of analgesics, physiotherapy, orthotics, and sparing. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of a single application of a high-energy PEMF (pulsed electromagnetic field) on pain perception and blood born inflammation parameters., Methods: 34 patients were randomly assigned to a verum group (10 min PEMF, 0,78 T) or a placebo group (10 min sham condition). Prior to and up to one week after the patient blinded treatment (t1-t5), local pain state was assessed by means of algometry as pain pressure threshold (PPT). Accordingly, heat-shock protein 70 (HSP70) levels were analysed. Statistical analyses included 2‑way ANOVA (2 × 5). The clinical trial was registered (DRKS00031321)., Results: After randomization and drop-out (verum n = 17, placebo n = 13) baseline-analyses did not reveal significant between-group differences for PPT (p = 0,096), for HSP70 (p = 0,524), or any other sample characteristics (p > 0,05). Pain reduction during one week of observation showed to be significantly higher (p = 0,045, η 2  = 0,013) for the PEMF group (PPT: +83 bis +139%) compared to the placebo group (PPT: +10 bis +36%). There were no HSP70 associated effects., Conclusions: A single bout of high energy PEMF led to an immediate pain relief in tendinopathy patients lasting at least for one week, but the hypothesized underlying HSP70 associated inflammatory pathway could not be confirmed., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

ABSTRACT Background: Brazil has a top position regarding scientific production on noninvasive neuromodulation worldwide. Knowledge of scientometric phenomena involving Brazilian researchers who produce science on this theme may aid confidence in Brazilian clinical and research professionals. Objective: To investigate the scenario of research on the theme of noninvasive neuromodulation in Brazil. Methods: This was a scientometric study for mapping scientific production on this subject involving network phenomena, the professions of researchers, institutional affiliation, main research unit, total number of scientific articles on noninvasive neuromodulation published in journals, research sub-area and year of obtaining the PhD title. Public data from Lattes Platform curricula vitae and from VOSViewer© were used. Results: A total of 54 Brazilian researchers were identified, of whom 16 are research productivity fellows. Most of them are linked to institutions in southeastern Brazil, involving the professions of biology, biochemistry, physical education, physiotherapy, speech therapy, gerontology, medicine and psychology, with 1175 articles published in journals. These studies involve experimental animal and human models to account for mechanisms, observational studies, case reports, randomized clinical trials, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, product and process development, computer modeling and guidelines. Conclusions: Brazil occupies a prominent place in the world scenario of research on noninvasive neuromodulation, which is used by different professions for treatment of brain dysfunctions, with a trend towards expansion to other fields.

Background and purposeImpaired upper extremity (UE) motor function is a common disability after ischemic stroke. Exposure to extremely low frequency and low intensity electromagnetic fields (ELF-EMF) in a frequency-specific manner (Electromagnetic Network Targeting Field therapy; ENTF therapy) is a non-invasive method available to a wide range of patients that may enhance neuroplasticity, potentially facilitating motor recovery. This study seeks to quantify the benefit of the ENTF therapy on UE motor function in a subacute ischemic stroke population.MethodsIn a randomized, sham-controlled, double-blind trial, ischemic stroke patients in the subacute phase with moderately to severely impaired UE function were randomly allocated to active or sham treatment with a novel, non-invasive, brain computer interface-based, extremely low frequency and low intensity ENTF therapy (1–100 Hz, < 1 G). Participants received 40 min of active ENTF or sham treatment 5 days/week for 8 weeks; ~three out of the five treatments were accompanied by 10 min of concurrent physical/occupational therapy. Primary efficacy outcome was improvement on the Fugl-Meyer Assessment – Upper Extremity (FMA-UE) from baseline to end of treatment (8 weeks).ResultsIn the per protocol set (13 ENTF and 8 sham participants), mean age was 54.7 years (±15.0), 19% were female, baseline FMA-UE score was 23.7 (±11.0), and median time from stroke onset to first stimulation was 11 days (interquartile range (IQR) 8–15). Greater improvement on the FMA-UE from baseline to week 4 was seen with ENTF compared to sham stimulation, 23.2 ± 14.1 vs. 9.6 ± 9.0, p = 0.007; baseline to week 8 improvement was 31.5 ± 10.7 vs. 23.1 ± 14.1. Similar favorable effects at week 8 were observed for other UE and global disability assessments, including the Action Research Arm Test (Pinch, 13.4 ± 5.6 vs. 5.3 ± 6.5, p = 0.008), Box and Blocks Test (affected hand, 22.5 ± 12.4 vs. 8.5 ± 8.6, p < 0.0001), and modified Rankin Scale (−2.5 ± 0.7 vs. −1.3 ± 0.7, p = 0.0005). No treatment-related adverse events were reported.ConclusionsENTF stimulation in subacute ischemic stroke patients was associated with improved UE motor function and reduced overall disability, and results support its safe use in the indicated population. These results should be confirmed in larger multicenter studies.Clinical trial registrationhttps://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04039178, identifier: NCT04039178.

Many different pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) devises have been clinically used to stimulate healing processes, but many procedures are still without supporting basic research data. The aim of this study was to investigate a new modified pulsed electromagnetic field therapy: electromagnetic transduction therapy (EMTT). EMTT is technically based on high-intensive PEMFs with a magnetic field strength between 80 and 150 mT. The effect of EMTT for a 10-min session three times a week on human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) was evaluated by assessing cell viability, gene expression of bone regenerative factors and VEGF-A (vascular endothelial growth factor) secretion after 7 and 14 days of treatment. No negative or toxic effects of EMTT on MSCs in vitro were observed in the applied test frame. The VEGF-ELISA at day 7 of EMTT treatment with 80 mT showed a significant higher VEGF concentration compared to untreated control group. In conclusion, high-intensive electromagnetic impulses showed no harmful effects on MSC cultures in our study. The enhancement of the proangiogenic factor VEGF in MSCs on day 7 indicates a substantial role in cell-stimulating effect of EMTT. Further in vitro and in vivo studies should differentiate specific stimulating and regenerating effects of EMTT impulses in soft tissue engineering. Specific electromagnetic characteristics have to be determined to optimize electromagnetic treatment options in orthopedic surgery and traumatology and soft tissue treatment options. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: 5-Fluorouracil (5FU) and Fe3O4 nanoparticles were encapsulated in core-shellpolycaprolactone (PCL)/chitosan (CS) nanofibers as a multi-mode anticancer system to studydrug release sustainability. The structure of the core-shell drug delivery system was alsooptimized according to drug release behavior by artificial intelligence.Methods: The core-shell nanofibers were electrospun by a coaxial syringe. Artificial neuralnetwork (ANN) was used for function approximation to estimate release parameters. A geneticalgorithm was then used for optimizing the structure. Chemical assay of the optimized samplewas performed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD),and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). vibration sample magnetometer (VSM) testwas conducted to measure the real amount of loaded magnetic nanoparticles. HepG2 cellcytotoxicity was studied and the results for the optimized samples with and without Fe3O4 after72 hours were reported.Results: Feeding ratio of sheath to core and the amount of CS, Fe3O4, and 5FU had a statisticaleffect on nanofibers diameters, which were 300-450 nm. The drug loading efficiency of thesenanofibers was 65-86%. ANN estimated the release parameters with an error of 10%. Thetemperature increased about 5.6°C in the alternative magnetic field (AMF) of 216 kA.m-1~300kHz and 4.8°C in the AMF of 154 kA.m-1~400 kHz after 20 minutes. HepG2 cell cytotoxicityfor the optimized samples with and without Fe3O4 after 72 hours were 39.7% and 38.8%,respectively.Conclusion: Since this core-shell drug release system was more sustainable compared to theblend structure despite the low half-life of 5FU, it is suggested to utilize it as post-surgicalimplants for various cancer treatments such as liver or colorectal cancer in the future. Thissystem is capable of providing chemotherapy and hyperthermia simultaneously. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Background: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic degenerative disease of multiple joints with a rising prevalence. Pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) therapy may provide a cost-effective, noninvasive, and safe therapeutic modality with growing popularity and use in physical medicine and rehabilitation. The purpose of this study was to synthesize the current knowledge on the use of PEMF in OA. Methods: A systematic review of systematic reviews was performed. The PubMed, Embase, PEDro and Web of Science databases were searched based on a predetermined protocol. Results: Overall, 69 studies were identified. After removing the duplicates and then screening title, abstract and full text, 10 studies were included in the final analysis. All studies focused on knee OA, and four studies also reported on cervical, two on hand, and one on ankle OA. In terms of the level of evidence and bias, most studies were of low or medium quality. Most concurrence was observed for pain reduction, with other endpoints such as stiffness or physical function showing a greater variability in outcomes. Conclusion: The PEMF therapy appears to be effective in the short term to relieve pain and improve function in patients with OA. The existing studies used very heterogeneous treatment schemes, mostly with low sample sizes and suboptimal study designs, from which no sufficient proof of efficacy can be derived. A catalogue of measures to improve the quality of future studies has been drawn up. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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