In 40 seconds
Passive metal implants — joint replacements, plates, screws, wires, dental crowns — are NOT a contraindication for clinical PEMF. The magnetic field doesn't heat metal at the intensities used in therapy (this is different from MRI, which uses much higher field strengths). PEMF actually accelerates bone-implant integration and is FDA-cleared for post-surgical use. Only electronic implants (pacemakers, defibrillators, cochlear implants, insulin pumps, neurostimulators) are hard contraindications because they can be electrically disrupted.
Quick facts
- Joint replacements: Safe — actually supports integration
- Plates and screws: Safe
- Dental work: Safe
- Pacemakers / electronics: HARD contraindication
- Cochlear implants: Contraindication
- Insulin pumps: Contraindication
- Neurostimulators: Contraindication
Practical guidance
See FAQ below for specific scenarios.
Contraindications
Hard exclusions — do not have PEMF if any apply:
- Pacemaker, implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD), or any cardiac electronic device
- Cochlear implant or other implanted electronic hearing device
- Spinal cord stimulator, deep-brain stimulator, vagus nerve stimulator
- Intrathecal pump or implanted drug pump
- Insulin pump (continuous glucose monitors are usually fine — confirm with the clinic)
- Active infection at the treatment site
- Pregnancy — when treatment would be over the abdomen, lumbar spine, or pelvis
Discuss with your GP or specialist before booking if any apply:
- Active malignancy or recent cancer history (oncologist clearance required)
- History of seizures or epilepsy
- Multiple sclerosis or other neurological condition under specialist care
- Anticoagulant therapy (PEMF itself does not thin blood, but bruising risk if local circulation is already compromised)
- Children under 14 (most UK clinics will not treat under-18s without paediatric specialist input)
- Recent surgery within the last 14 days at the treatment site (confirm with surgeon)
NOT contraindications — these are commonly misunderstood:
- Plates, rods, screws and other passive metal orthopaedic hardware
- Dental implants and dental crowns
- Joint replacements (hip, knee, shoulder)
- IUDs (copper or hormonal)
- Tattoos and piercings (jewellery should be removed for the session)
Specific to this condition: 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
Will PEMF affect my knee replacement?
No — and it may actually help. PEMF is FDA-cleared for post-surgical pain and oedema and supports bone-implant integration.
What about dental implants?
Safe. Titanium dental implants don't heat or move under clinical PEMF.
I have a pacemaker — can I have PEMF?
No. Pacemakers and other electronic implants are hard contraindications. The field can interfere with device function.
Why is MRI different?
MRI uses much higher field strengths (1.5–3 Tesla) compared to clinical PEMF (typically microtesla to millitesla). Different physics, different rules.
Looking for a PEMF clinic near you?
We list every credible PEMF therapy provider in the UK so you can find one near home.