Can Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Applications Help Ameliorate Chronic Osteoarthritis Degradation in Older Adults: A Brief 2025 Update of its Potential Restorative Role

Abstract

Osteoarthritis, a painful oftentimes disabling joint disorder is generally deemed incurable. Affecting more and more aging adults, here we examine the rationale for, and potential efficacy of applying pulsed electromagnetic fields clinically for purposes of reducing osteoarthritis pain and other related disease features, especially muscle. Based on selected English language literature published largely on PUBMED between January 2020 and September 2025, papers describing muscle specific observations and others and the impact of pulsed electrical stimuli are explored. These show efficacy trends that may facilitate function and decrease suffering and the need for narcotics and possible joint reparative processes among older adults with chronically disabling joint derangement and dysfunction.