Efficacy of Pulsed Electromagnetic Fields on Experimental Osteopenia in Rodents: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Osteoporosis leads to increased bone fragility and risk of fractures. Different strategies have been employed to reduce bone loss, including the use of a pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF). Although many experimental studies have demonstrated the effect of PEMF on reduction of bone loss, the outcomes studied are varied and insufficient, and the quality of evidence is unknown. Therefore, the aim of this review was to assess the preclinical evidence on the effect of PEMF on bone loss. The existing challenges were also evaluated, and suggestions were provided to strengthen the quality of evidence in future studies. All original articles concerning the effect of PEMF on osteoporosis in animal models were included. Twenty-four studies met the inclusion criteria, 23 of which suggested that PEMF was effective in reducing bone loss, while one study failed to demonstrate any benefit. Risk of bias analysis suggested that information on key measures to reduce bias was frequently not reported. Animal models for osteoporosis, PEMF intervention regimens, outcomes, and specific bone detection sites seemed to influence the efficacy of PEMF in osteoporosis. Our results indicate the potential benefits of PEMF selection in animal models of osteoporosis. However, due to the heterogeneity of the parameters and the quality of the included literature, comprehensive studies using standardized protocols are warranted to confirm the results.

Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Stimulation in Bone Healing and Joint Preservation: A Narrative Review of the Literature

“…A recent review showed positive effects of PEMFs in the treatment of osteoporosis in 23 out of 24 studies included in the study. In particular, PEMFs increase bone mineral mass and reduce symptoms related to osteoporosis [64].…”

Pulsed Electromagnetic Fields (PEMF)—Physiological Response and Its Potential in Trauma Treatment

“…In the experimental approach to this topic, a review paper from 2021 [46] identified a total of 24 viable studies with evaluated parameters from bone mineral density to biochemical analyses, and from histological/histomorhometric workups to CT scans. Of these, 23 showed a positive effect of PEMF on the parameter(s) evaluated in each case.…”

Pulsed Electro-Magnetic Field (PEMF) Effect on Bone Healing in Animal Models: A Review of Its Efficacy Related to Different Type of Damage

“…Moreover, they are small and easily fit in cages to perform PEMF stimulation. Their fast growth rate and accelerated bone metabolism also allow adequate assessment of the efficacy of treatment [35]. In iatrogenic osteotomies both large (such as dogs, sheep, goats, horses and nonhuman primates) and small sized (such as rats, mice and rabbits) animals can be selected.…”