In 40 seconds
PEMF therapy splits into two main families: high-intensity (millitesla to tesla range) and low-intensity (microtesla range). High-intensity systems like rTMS, MagnaWave, and Curatron are designed for bone healing, deep tissue, neurological applications, and equine use. Low-intensity systems like Bemer, OMI, and most home mats focus on cellular voltage, microcirculation, and general wellness. Different mechanisms, different indications, different price points. Don't compare them directly — they're different tools for different jobs.
Quick facts
- High-intensity range: Millitesla to tesla
- High-intensity uses: Bone, depression, equine, deep tissue
- Examples: rTMS, MagnaWave, Curatron
- Low-intensity range: Microtesla
- Low-intensity uses: Cellular voltage, microcirculation, wellness
- Examples (low-intensity): Bemer, OMI, most home mats
Practical guidance
See FAQ below for specific scenarios.
Contraindications
Standard PEMF contraindications: pacemakers, defibrillators, cochlear implants, insulin pumps, electronic implants; active malignancy without specialist clearance; pregnancy (over the abdomen); active infection; epilepsy without GP clearance.
Frequently asked questions
Which is better?
Neither — different tools for different jobs. High-intensity for bone, neurological, and deep-tissue work. Low-intensity for cellular wellness, recovery, and broader use.
Why is rTMS high-intensity?
rTMS targets specific brain regions and needs to induce neuronal-firing-level currents to depolarise cortical neurons. That requires much higher fields than cellular wellness PEMF.
Can low-intensity do what high-intensity does?
No — different effects. Low-intensity is broader-acting and milder. Use the right tool for the job.
Is high-intensity more dangerous?
More care needed. Specific contraindications. Always under specialist supervision.
Looking for a PEMF clinic near you?
We list every credible PEMF therapy provider in the UK so you can find one near home.