Pulsating electromagnetic fields in the treatment of orthopaedic diseases:A review and meta-analysis

Aim: Recently, pulsating electomagnetic fields have gained wide attraction in the treatment of various orthopaedic diseases. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the scientific evidence for the effectiveness of this thera peutic tool. Method: All clinical studies which deal with pulsating electro magnetic fields in the treatment of orthopaedic conditions are reviewed. To elucidate the physiological basis of the method, important experimental st udies are considered. Results: 37 clinical studies with 3379 patients are e valuated, of which only a minority were performed as prospective studies wi th control groups. The results of the studies, performed on patients with v arious orthopaedic conditions, are not unequivocal and partly inconsistent. In view of the physiological basis many questions remain unanswered. Concl usions: At present the use of pulsating electromagnetic fields in the treat ment of orthopaedic diseases is not scientifically proven.