Efeitos e Aplicações do Campo Eletromagnético de Alta Intensidade (PEMF) em saúde e estética: perspectivas e evidências clínicas

Abstract

The increased interest and concern with physical fitness, not only from an athletic point of view, but also from an aesthetic point of view, has driven the search for new methods and technologies capable of helping to gain mass and muscle tone. Recent studies show that 81% percent of respondents reported dissatisfaction with their body image, even with 56% having a normal body mass index. Pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) muscle stimulation technology uses alternating magnetic fields based on the law of electromagnetic induction to promote supramaximal muscle contractions. PEMF generates impulses that are independent of brain function, and with such a fast frequency that it does not allow the muscle relaxation phase, characterizing tetanic contractions. Electric currents and electromagnetism have been used in physical therapy and rehabilitation, especially for muscle strengthening. However, the PEMF technology has emerged as a more efficient and comfortable alternative for the patient, with the primary objective of toning and strengthening muscle groups. In this work, we performed a literature review of all scientific articles available and indexed in Pubmed and Web of Science about this technology in the last 20 years and its effects on skeletal muscles. We discuss the scientific evidence available from clinical studies and discuss effects and possible mechanisms of action on muscle contraction.