The use of PEMF therapies go back as early as ancient times when Iodestones were used for healing in Greece, China, and Egypt.
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In the 18th century early studies focused on animal magnetism.
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In 1831 English chemist and physicist Michael Faraday discovered electromagnetic induction and the Faraday Effect. His research led to the development of electrochemistry. He also invented the electric motor, the electric generator, and the electric transformer. He is also known for discovering benzene.
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1861-8162 James Clerk Maxwell formulated equations describing the behavior of electromagnetic fields
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1950s Research centers rekindled interest in PEMF for various disorders, including specifically bone health and fracture repair.
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1970s NASA conducted research on PEMF therapy as a means of mitigating adverse effects of space travel for astronauts (which include loss of bone and muscle, cardiovascular problems, and changes in brain tissue).
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1970s Fritz-Albert Popp coined the phrase “biophotons.” He built upon the work of Royal Raymond Rifecoined and demonstrated that biophoton emission of living organisms exhibit coherent patterns which facilitate long-range and energy transfer that impact cellular activities. His foundational work helped increase our current understanding of how biophotons contribute the synchronization of biological rhythms such as circadian rhythms and the tissue repair process.
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1985 Dr. Andrew Bassett, Dr. Arthur Pilla, and Dr. Robert O. Becker developed a PEMF generator to stimulate bone fracture healing and saw an 80% success rate. Dr. Becker published The Body Electric: Electromagnetism and the Foundation of Life.
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1990s PEMF started gaining widespread use for chronic pain management, bone healing, and muscle strength/health.
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2000s Research started exploring the use of PEMF for mental health conditions, including treatment-resistant depression.
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2010-now Further research continues to expand therapeutic applications for a multitude of benefits for the body and mind.