PEMF therapy fails to boost pain relief for slipped disc patients

This study tested whether adding pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) therapy to standard physical therapy could improve nerve pain and daily function in people with a slipped disc in the lower back. 46 adults with leg pain for at least 3 months took part. Both groups received standard care (electrical stimulation, heat, and exercise), but one group also got real PEMF while the other got a fake treatment. After treatment and one month later, both groups improved, but the PEMF group did not show any meaningful extra benefit for pain, disability, or quality of life.