PEMF Mat vs. Grounding Mat: What Does the Science Say?

Alternative wellness devices are getting steadily more popular. Two devices are getting plenty of attention at the moment: pulsed electromagnetic field therapy (PEMF) mats and grounding mats.

It can be hard to see through the marketing hype surrounding devices like these, but that’s what we’re here for. In this article, we will explore the science behind PEMF and grounding, including expert insights and the latest research.

PEMF mat vs. grounding mat: what’s the difference?

We spoke to an industry expert about the differences between PEMF mats and grounding mats. Here’s what he had to say:

PEMF mats

Dr. Chris Mohr, PhD, RD, an exercise physiologist and fitness and nutrition advisor at Barbend explains what PEMF mats are and how they work.

According to Dr. Mohr, PEMF mats use low-frequency electromagnetic waves to stimulate cellular activity. The idea is that these pulses penetrate the body, potentially improving circulation, and reducing inflammation.

There is some scientific evidence in potential bone healing and pain management. However, claims about broader health benefits, like improved energy levels or detoxification, don’t have reliable evidence.

Dr. Chris Mohr

Grounding mats

Grounding mats work differently to PEMF. Dr. Mohr says, “PEMF mats generate electromagnetic pulses to interact with the body, while grounding mats work by connecting the body to electrical charge, typically through a grounded outlet or direct contact with the ground.”

He adds, “Grounding mats are based on the hypothesis that direct contact with the Earth allows free electrons to enter the body, potentially having a positive effect on one's well-being. Some preliminary studies show potential benefits for sleep, stress, and inflammation, but there’s not much evidence, and more extensive research is needed to confirm any significant health effects. I'd suggest trying walking around the house and outside barefoot, when you can, before investing in a grounding mat.”

Scientific findings on PEMF and grounding

More scientific research is required for both PEMF and grounding to make definitive claims about their health benefits, such as benefits for sleep and pain. However, PEMF has stronger research behind it than grounding, particularly for specific conditions. Below, we’ll explore each of these therapies in more detail and evaluate the existing research.

The science behind PEMF

A 2020 review published in the Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons discussed PEMF potential for bone healing and joint preservation. PEMF is FDA-approved as a safe treatment for non-union bone fractures.

The review discussed that PEMF may influence specific receptors involved in cellular repair, such as A2 and A3 adenosine receptors. Additionally, PEMF has been studied for its potential effects on extracellular matrix remodeling in bones and cartilage, though the exact mechanisms require further investigation.

PEMF for pain and inflammation

PEMF shows promising results for pain and inflammation. The most recent research on this topic is a 2025 systematic review published in Wiener Medizinische Wochenschrift. This review included nine randomized, controlled trials with a total of 420 participants. The main goal of the review was to evaluate the effects of PEMF on pain and function in patients with non-specific low back pain.

The review concluded that PEMF therapy is a promising tool for pain reduction and improvement of physical function in people with conditions like osteoarthritis, with five out of nine studies showing statistically significant improvement. Most importantly, no serious adverse effects were reported.

However, treatment and protocols varied widely across the studies included. For this reason, future research should focus on identifying clearer standards, such as the frequency and intensity of sessions, when using PEMF as a treatment.

PEMF for osteoarthritis

A 2020 systematic review and meta-analysis investigated the effects of PEMF on pain, stiffness, physical function, and quality of life in people with osteoarthritis. Sixteen studies were included, and this review found that PEMF has a beneficial effect on pain, stiffness, and physical function.

PEMF frequency, intensity, and duration did not significantly affect these outcomes. However, the effect of PEMF on quality of life was unclear in this review, so more research is needed.

The science behind grounding

Grounding has less substantial research backing than PEMF. No systematic reviews or meta-analyses on this therapy were available. However, a 2020 review offered positive insights into the potential of grounding. This review suggested that around 20 studies show significant physiological improvements through grounding therapy. Anecdotal reports also back this.

Grounding for pain and sleep

There are also some preliminary and pilot studies examining grounding. For instance, a 2019 randomized, controlled trial found that grounding improved pain, physical function, and mood in massage therapists. However, only 16 participants were included in this study and results were self-reported, so further research is required to prove these claims.

A 2004 pilot study found earthing during sleep reduces night-time levels of cortisol and resynchronizes cortisol hormone secretion, however, only 12 subjects were included in this pilot study, so further research on this topic is needed.

Safety and precautions

There are no specific studies on the safety of PEMF mats or grounding mats. One study considered PEMF safe in people with implanted devices who had symptoms of stress urinary incontinence. However, there are no studies on the general safety of PEMF mats.

Although PEMF is FDA-approved, this approval only applies to specific health conditions. To be FDA-approved, PEMF devices must be used under clinical supervision, and most PEMF mats sold online do not fall under FDA approval.

Dr. Mohr offered his insights on the safety of PEMF devices and grounding mats: “PEMF is generally considered safe but should be avoided by people with pacemakers, implanted medical devices, or those who are pregnant. Grounding mats have minimal risk, but if plugged into a faulty electrical system, there is a small chance of exposure to electrical currents."

Bottom line

Still unsure whether a PEMF mat or a grounding mat is for you? PEMF has better scientific backing, but both grounding mats and PEMF mats have limited research on their use.

However, no major side effects in healthy people have been reported from either therapy. So, there’s no harm in giving them a try as long as you don’t have any medical conditions that make them unsafe for you to use. Always check with your doctor if you’re unsure.