Bio-Electro-Magnetic-Energy-Regulation (BEMER) for the treatment of type I complex regional pain syndrome: A pilot study

ABSTRACT

Objective: The study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of Bio-Electro-Magnetic-Energy-Regulation (BEMER) magneto-therapy on pain and functional outcome in complex regional pain syndrome type I (CRPS-I). We hypothesized that BEMER therapy, based on its declared effects on microcirculation, could be beneficial in the treatment of this condition. Methods: This was a randomized controlled double-blind pilot study that included 30 patients with CRPS-I. Patients were divided into two groups: a study group, in which the rehabilitation program was combined with BEMER therapy for 10 consecutive days, and a control group, in which the rehabilitation program was combined with a sham BEMER treatment. Outcome measures (Visual Analogic Scale pain; Hand Grip Strength; Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand ; Maryland Foot Score) were taken at the beginning and end of treatment, and at 1 month follow-up. Results: The study demonstrated that the group treated with BEMER combined with rehabilitation yielded better results in the short term, in terms of pain reduction and functional improvement both at the upper and lower limbs. Conclusions: Data from the present pilot study suggest that BEMER therapy can be indicated, in combination with traditional rehabilitation programs, for the treatment of CRPS-I.

KEYWORDS:

• CRPS-I
• pain
• magneto-therapy
• rehabilitation
• functional outcome

Acknowledgments

The authors wish to thank the BEMER ITALIA S.r.l. which made available the bio-electro-magnetic-energy-regulation device for the study. Special thanks go to Elettra Pignotti, Statistician, for the support in statistical analysis.

Declaration of Interest

The authors report no conflicts of interest.