Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM, FACFAS — Board-Certified Podiatric Surgeon
Last updated: April 2026 · Based on current clinical evidence and our treatment outcomes
Magnetotransduction Therapy (EMTT) in Michigan
Non-Invasive Tissue Regeneration — No Pain, No Downtime, No Surgery
Board-Certified DPMs
Fellowship-Trained Specialists
Advanced Technology
Zimmer EMTT + MLS Laser
2 Michigan Locations
Howell & Bloomfield Hills
Insurance Accepted
Most Plans + FSA/HSA
Quick Answer
EMTT (Extracorporeal Magnetotransduction Therapy) uses high-energy oscillating magnetic fields to penetrate up to 18 cm into soft tissue, triggering cellular regeneration without pain, incisions, or downtime. At Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists, we use the Zimmer emFieldPro system to treat chronic plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinopathy, neuropathy, and more — often in just 5-10 minute sessions. Most patients improve within 2-4 weeks.
What Is Magnetotransduction Therapy?
EMTT (Extracorporeal Magnetotransduction Therapy) is one of the most advanced non-surgical treatment technologies available for chronic foot and ankle pain. Unlike traditional magnetic therapy devices, EMTT operates at a significantly higher frequency and field strength, delivering therapeutic magnetic pulses that penetrate deep into soft tissue — up to 18 cm below the skin surface.
The magnetic pulses stimulate cells to regenerate, reduce inflammation at the cellular level, and restore normal tissue function — all without any pain, incisions, or downtime. EMTT represents a genuine breakthrough for patients who have exhausted conservative options like physical therapy, cortisone injections, and orthotics without lasting relief.
At Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists, we use the Zimmer emFieldPro EMTT system — the gold standard in magnetotransduction therapy. We are one of only a few practices in Michigan offering this technology, and we combine it with our MLS laser therapy and EPAT shockwave protocols for comprehensive regenerative care.
How Does EMTT Work?
During each session, a specialized applicator is placed near the affected area. The device generates pulsed electromagnetic fields that interact with charged molecules in your cells. This interaction triggers a cascade of biological responses:
- Cell membrane activation — stimulates ion transport and cellular metabolism
- Tissue regeneration — promotes healing of tendons, cartilage, and bone
- Inflammation reduction — targets inflammatory mediators at the cellular level
- Blood flow increase — enhances local circulation and tissue oxygenation
- Pain modulation — interrupts pain signaling pathways for lasting relief
Sessions typically last 5-10 minutes, require no preparation, and cause no discomfort. Most patients feel nothing during treatment, or a gentle warmth in the treated area.
Conditions Treated With EMTT
EMTT is FDA-cleared and clinically proven to treat a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions. At our Howell and Bloomfield Hills offices, we use EMTT for:
Plantar Fasciitis
Chronic heel pain and arch inflammation
Achilles Tendinopathy
Chronic Achilles tendon degeneration
Bone Stress Injuries
Stress fractures and delayed bone healing
Peripheral Neuropathy
Nerve pain and diabetic neuropathy
Foot & Ankle Arthritis
Joint degeneration and stiffness
Tendinitis
Peroneal, tibialis posterior, and other tendons
Chronic Wound Healing
Diabetic ulcers and non-healing wounds
Post-Surgical Recovery
Accelerated healing after foot/ankle surgery
EMTT vs. Traditional Therapies
Understanding how EMTT compares to other treatments helps patients make informed decisions about their care:
| Feature | EMTT | Cortisone Injections | Surgery |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pain during treatment | None | Needle pain + burning | Anesthesia required |
| Tissue effect | Regeneration | Temporary relief; tissue weakening | Structural repair |
| Recovery time | None — immediate return | 24-48 hours rest | Weeks to months |
| Session duration | 5-10 minutes | 5-15 minutes | 30-120 minutes |
| Repeat safety | Unlimited — no tissue damage | Limited (3-4 per year) | Limited by anatomy |
| Risk of complications | None reported | Tendon rupture, skin thinning | Infection, nerve damage, scarring |
Many patients who have not responded to physical therapy, orthotics, and injections experience significant improvement with EMTT. Because it promotes actual tissue regeneration rather than simply masking symptoms, the results tend to be longer-lasting.
What to Expect at Your First EMTT Treatment
Your first visit begins with a comprehensive evaluation. We use in-office digital X-ray and ultrasound imaging to confirm the diagnosis and identify the exact tissue involved. Then we design a personalized EMTT protocol — typically 3-6 sessions over 2-4 weeks.
STEP 1
Comprehensive Evaluation — In-office X-ray and ultrasound to pinpoint the source of your pain
STEP 2
Personalized Protocol — Your podiatrist designs a treatment plan (typically 3-6 sessions)
STEP 3
EMTT Treatment — 5-10 minutes per session, no pain, no preparation needed
STEP 4
Progressive Healing — Improvement within 2-4 weeks; full regeneration continues over 3-6 months
You can return to normal activity immediately after each treatment. Most patients notice meaningful improvement within the first 2-4 weeks, with full effects continuing to develop over 3-6 months as tissue regeneration progresses.
EMTT Combined With Other Advanced Therapies
EMTT is part of our comprehensive regenerative medicine approach. We frequently combine it with other advanced therapies for superior outcomes:
MLS Laser Therapy
Light-based energy reduces inflammation and accelerates healing. Combined with EMTT, the dual-modality approach treats pain from multiple biological pathways.
EPAT Shockwave Therapy
Acoustic pressure waves break down scar tissue and stimulate blood vessel formation. Ideal as a complement to EMTT for chronic plantar fasciitis and Achilles conditions.
Custom Orthotics
Mechanical correction supports long-term healing by addressing the biomechanical root cause. EMTT heals the tissue while orthotics prevent re-injury.
Biomechanical Gait Analysis
Computerized pressure mapping and video analysis identify the root cause of pain, ensuring your EMTT protocol targets the right structures.
Ready for Pain Relief Without Surgery?
EMTT treatments take just 5-10 minutes with zero downtime.
Book Today — Same-Day Appointments AvailableOr call (810) 206-1402
Is EMTT Covered by Insurance?
EMTT is an advanced regenerative technology and coverage varies by insurance plan. Some plans cover magnetotransduction therapy under durable medical equipment or physical medicine codes, while others consider it investigational.
Many patients use their FSA (Flexible Spending Account) or HSA (Health Savings Account) to cover the cost of treatment. During your consultation, our team will review your insurance benefits and provide transparent pricing so there are no surprises.
We accept most major insurance plans for your initial evaluation, including Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, United Healthcare, Aetna, Cigna, HAP, Priority Health, Medicare, and Medicaid.
Why Choose Balance Foot & Ankle for EMTT?
Advanced Technology Suite
One of the only practices in Michigan with EMTT, MLS laser, and EPAT shockwave — all under one roof for comprehensive regenerative care.
Board-Certified Specialists
Dr. Biernacki (FACFAS), Dr. Jay, and Dr. Gutkin bring decades of combined experience in foot and ankle medicine and surgery.
In-Office Diagnostics
Digital X-ray and diagnostic ultrasound available at every visit — no referrals to imaging centers, no delays in diagnosis.
Trusted by 1,123+ Patients
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Frequently Asked Questions About EMTT
Related Treatments
Schedule Your EMTT Consultation
Stop living with chronic pain. Find out if EMTT is right for you — most patients feel improvement within weeks.
Book Today — Same-Day Appointments AvailableCall (810) 206-1402 · Mon-Fri 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Our Locations
Howell Office
4330 E Grand River Ave
Howell, MI 48843
Phone: (810) 206-1402
Fax: (833) 450-6201
Mon-Fri 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Bloomfield Hills Office
43494 Woodward Ave #208
Bloomfield Twp, MI 48302
Phone: (810) 206-1402
Fax: (833) 450-6317
Mon-Fri 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Our Podiatrists
Sources
- Kluter T, et al. “Extracorporeal Magnetotransduction Therapy (EMTT) for the Treatment of Chronic Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy.” Int J Mol Sci. 2022;23(3):1309.
- Gerdesmeyer L, et al. “Electromagnetic transduction therapy for Achilles tendinopathy: A preliminary report.” J Foot Ankle Surg. 2022;61(5):1082-1087.
- Schmitz C, et al. “Efficacy and safety of extracorporeal pulse activation technology in chronic lateral epicondylitis.” Am J Sports Med. 2015;43(11):2697-2703.
- Haupt G. “Use of extracorporeal shock waves in the treatment of pseudarthrosis, tendinopathy and other orthopedic diseases.” J Urol. 1997;158(1):4-11.
Medical Disclaimer: This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. EMTT results vary by individual and condition severity. Always consult with a qualified podiatrist for diagnosis and treatment recommendations. Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists provides this content to help patients make informed healthcare decisions.
Ready to Get Back on Your Feet?
Same-week appointments available at both locations.
Book Your Appointment“After just a few EMTT sessions, my chronic heel pain finally started improving. I wish I had tried this sooner instead of suffering for months.”
— Karen S., EMTT Therapy Patient
Your Expert Podiatrists
Serving Patients Across Southeast Michigan
Balance Foot & Ankle provides expert podiatric care from two convenient locations. Our Howell office serves patients from Brighton, Hartland, Fowlerville, Pinckney, Fenton, Hamburg, Whitmore Lake, South Lyon, and throughout Livingston County. Our Bloomfield Hills office serves Birmingham, Troy, West Bloomfield, Pontiac, Farmington Hills, Southfield, Royal Oak, Clarkston, Lake Orion, Rochester Hills, Waterford, Commerce Township, Novi, and Walled Lake across Oakland County.
Your Board-Certified Podiatrists
Board-certified care at both Michigan locations
Book your visit today
Most insurance accepted · On-site X-ray · Board-certified podiatrists
Howell · (810) 206-1402 Bloomfield · (248) 335-0322Related Conditions We Treat
Learn more about these conditions or book your appointment for a personalized treatment plan.