BACKGROUND: Osteoarthritis, a painful joint disorder involving degenerative changes of the articular cartilage and subchondral bone, often results in progressive functional impairment and disability. One particular modality used by physiotherapists that shows very promising results in reducing the joint damage and pain found in osteoarthritis is pulsed electromagnetic fields. OBJECTIVE: The present objective was to examine the rationale for, and the potential efficacy of, applying pulsed electromagnetic fields for reducing joint pain and other related symptoms of osteoarthritis. METHODS: The related English language literature was extensively reviewed to examine whether changes in pain might be expected from the application of pulsed electromagnetic fields to an osteo-arthritic joint, and why. RESULTS: The basic and clinical research in this field, while somewhat limited, supports the insightful application of pulsed electromagnetic fields to ameliorate pain and disability due to osteoarthritis. CONCLUSION: Further basic and clinical research to validate the use of pulsed electromagnetic fields in facilitating function and possibly in facilitating joint reparative processes in osteoarthritis, as well the lessening of osteoarthritic joint pain and joint dysfunction is indicated.

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