Is Magnetic Therapy Useful for Pain Relief?

Magnetic therapy is believed to create a magnetic field under the body part the magnets are applied to and improve blood flow and oxygenation. This is felt to increase the body healing processes. As more blood flows through the capillaries toxins are removed and nutrients are increased in the treated areas. The magnets may also stimulate the nervous system blocking discomfort.

Magnet therapy is not new and has been used in Chinese medicine for 2000 years. Chinese medicine is based on the oriental understanding of Chi as energy that flows through the body. Other modalities such as acupuncture are based on this same system of the flow of Chi or energy through the body. The ancient Greeks also used magnets or loadstones to treat conditions.

Magnet therapy is controversial and most medical organizations do not support its use or efficacy. However there have been inconclusive studies that show magnet therapy may be helpful in pain relief. To research studies on magnet therapy on your own check:

http://www.mc.vanderbilt.edu/search/?search=magnet+therapy&submit=%3CSPAN+class%3DbuttonTextToHide%3Ego%3C%2FSPAN%3E

This is a site with published studies regarding magnet therapy.

Proponents of magnetic therapy claim carpal tunnel, headaches, and arthritis, to name a few of many conditions, benefit from magnet therapy. Advocates claim the magnets relieve pain and improve function. Many people give antidotal reports of the effectiveness of magnet therapy but, there is no hard scientific proof of its use. However, there's no hard scientific proof of Gods existence either so this doesn't necessarily mean magnets aren't worth a try. Just use good sense and don't use magnets to replace your doctors recommended treatment.

To use magnets, it's recommended the magnet be placed over the affected area. If it fails to produce any relief over the first few days, reposition the magnets. Its felt proper placement of the magnets is vital to effectiveness. If no relief is obtained over 30 days, chances are it's not going to work and you should seek other care. Magnets come in a variety of prices ranging from reasonable to ridiculous. Look for a company that allows refunds and returns if you are not satisfied with the results.

Magnet therapy is not felt to be harmful, however if you have a pacemaker or implanted defibrillator you should not use them as they could interfere with the operation of the device. Pregnant women should not use magnets because no studies have been done on their safety in pregnancy. You should always err on the side of caution when treating children.

This article is meant to be informational only and is not meant as medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor for questions.

Sources:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magnetic_healing

http://www.consumerhealthreviews.com/articles/MagneticTherapy/MagnetTherapy.htm

http://magnetpaintherapy.com/magnetic_pain_therapy.html

http://www.magnetictherapyinfo.com/

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Magnetic_therapy

http://www.cancer.org/docroot/ETO/content/ETO_5_3X_Magnetic_Therapy.asp

http://www.magnetictherapyfacts.org/magnetic_therapy_research.asp