There's a Nervous System Therapy That Nobody is Talking About | PEMF Therapy

Last week I brought Otto to Fortify Athletics and Therapeutics for one reason only — to see a life-size skeleton - his love for horror, monsters, ghosts...is very real right now. I just needed to kill some earlier morning hours, and I knew the gym was open. We were just there to look at bones.

While we were there, Dr. Chelsea Noel, gently suggested he try sitting in their PEMF chair. No pressure. Just a little nudge curiosity. (Side note, Chelsea is my sister and knows Otto well enough that he could benefit from a session).

The moment Otto sat down, something shifted. His shoulders dropped and his face softened. His body looked… comfortable. His eyes were almost glazed over...He was simply settled. He sat the PEMF chair for 15 quiet minutes, almost like his body had been waiting for that feeling.

A few days later we went back, this time I was prepared with juice and a few small distractions so in hopes he would sit longer. Otto completed a full 30-minute session. The rest of that day felt different. He was regulated.

Happy. More flexible through unpredictability. More social. More himself. The kind of day where everything just flows easier. I don’t throw around the word magic lightly, but as a parent you know when something helps your child feel good in their body.

So..What is PEMF?

PEMF (Pulsed Electromagnetic Field therapy) is a gentle, non-invasive wellness therapy that uses low electromagnetic pulses to support circulation, cellular function, and nervous system balance. Some research suggests it may support brain communication pathways and help reduce inflammation.

I’m not sharing this as a solution, because everyone will have different outcomes and their own experience. I am sharing this because I’m always searching for gentle ways to support his nervous system — not to change who he is, but to help him feel safe being exactly who he is. Sometimes the most helpful supports are the ones nobody is really talking about yet.

Where can I book a session?

There is a quiet, cozy room inside The Therapeutic Collective at Fortify Athletics & Therapeutics (200 High Street) in Portsmouth, Rhode Island, where this work happens. Fortify is built around a simple but powerful idea: when we support the body through movement, nourishment, recovery, and connection, we create the conditions for long-term health and resilience — for both children and adults.

If you’re a parent who is looking for an alternative way to support your child’s nervous system, this may be something worth exploring with curiosity, just like we did. You can learn more about PEMF therapy or schedule a session directly through Fortify’s online booking system.

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How PEMF May Support Children’s Brain and Body Health

Protect the brain

Some research suggests PEMF may help support the protective barrier around the brain (called the blood-brain barrier), which helps keep harmful substances out and important nutrients in.

Reduce stress in the brain

PEMF may support healthy circulation and fluid balance, which could help the brain feel less “stressed” or overloaded.

Calm brain inflammation

Some studies suggest PEMF may help reduce inflammation in brain support cells (called microglia), which play a role in how the brain responds to stress and injury.

Help the body shift into a calm, regulated state

PEMF may help activate the parasympathetic nervous system — sometimes called the “rest and regulate” state. When children are more regulated, they feel calmer and recover faster from overwhelm.

Healthy cell function

PEMF may help cells communicate and function more efficiently. Healthy cells support the body’s natural repair processes.

Brain flexibility (neuroplasticity)

Some research suggests PEMF may support the brain’s ability to adapt and form new connections, which is important for learning, emotional regulation, and development.

Support the body's natural detox systems

Some practitioners believe PEMF may support circulation and cellular function, which can help the body process environmental exposures more efficiently.

Help reduce physical discomfort

PEMF is most established for helping with pain and recovery, especially muscle and joint discomfort.

Improve circulation and oxygen delivery

Better circulation means oxygen and nutrients may reach tissues more effectively, which supports overall health.

Support digestion

Because digestion is controlled by the nervous system, helping the body relax may support gut function in some children.

Support mitochondrial function (cellular energy production)

Mitochondria are the “energy producers” of our cells. Supporting them may help with energy levels and resilience.

Better sleep

Many families report children falling asleep easier or sleeping more deeply when their nervous system is more regulated.

Emotional regulation

Parents report their child recovering more quickly from frustration or sensory overload.

Focus and attention

When the nervous system is calmer, some children appear more available for play and learning.

Sensory processing

Families report children appearing more comfortable with sensory input like noise, movement, or touch.

Recovery after stress

Parents describe PEMF as helping their child "bounce back" faster after challenging situations.

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