Home / Research / by Art Crotty

Pretreatment of rats with pulsed electromagnetic fields enhances regeneration of the sciatic nerve

Abstract

Regeneration of the sciatic nerve was studied in rats pretreated in a pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF). The rats were exposed between a pair of Helmholtz coils at a pulse repetition rate of 2 pps at a field density of 60 or 300 microT. The PEMF treatment was then discontinued. After an interval of recovery, regeneration of the sciatic nerve was initiated by a crush lesion. Regeneration of sensory fibers was measured by the “pinch test” after an additional 3-6 days. A variety of PEMF pretreatments including 4 h/day for 1-4 days or exposure for 15 min/day during 2 days resulted in an increased regeneration distance, measured 3 days after the crush lesion. This effect could be demonstrated even after a 14-day recovery period. In contrast, pretreatment for 4 h/day for 2 days at 60 microT did not affect the regeneration distance. The results showed that PEMF pretreatment conditioned the rat sciatic nerve in a manner similar to that which occurs after a crush lesion, which indicates that PEMF affects the neuronal cell body. However, the mechanism of this effect remains obscure.

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov:80/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=PubMed&list_uids=8216387&dopt=Abstract
Bioelectromagnetics 1993;14(4):353-9
Kanje M, Rusovan A, Sisken B, Lundborg G.
Department of Animal Physiology, University of Lund, Sweden.

Share this story, choose your platform!

Have a Question?

The Association of PEMF Professionals connects practitioners all over the world to ensure those interested in PEMF can access a professional nearby.
Complete the form below and we will be in touch soon.
Contact Us

Become a Member

Research

Gain access to all our research articles

Discounts

Use our Member Discounts Program

Certifications

Get AOPP Certified
You are enjoying 1 of 2 free previews