In 40 seconds
Post-polio syndrome (PPS) affects polio survivors decades after their original infection — new weakness, fatigue, pain, and muscle atrophy in previously stable muscles. No disease-modifying treatment exists. PEMF therapy may support residual muscle function, reduce pain, and improve sleep. Always alongside specialist neurology / rehab medicine care.
Quick facts
- Affects: Polio survivors decades after infection
- Symptoms: New weakness, fatigue, pain, atrophy
- PEMF role: Muscle function support, pain, sleep
- Always with: Specialist neuro / rehab medicine
How PEMF may help
Pacing, energy conservation, gentle strength work, and orthotics are the foundation of PPS management. PEMF supports the underlying biology.
Practical use
2-3 sessions per week × 8 weeks. Pace carefully — PPS has post-exertional features similar to ME/CFS in some patients.
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 it restore my strength?
Don't expect that. Maintenance and modest improvement are realistic goals.
Looking for a PEMF clinic near you?
We list every credible PEMF therapy provider in the UK so you can find one near home.