Static magnets provide an unchangeable and measurable magnetic force. According to the National Canter for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, magnets often are designed to fit in jewelry, shoe insoles, mattresses and braces for healing and pain relief. While magnets are generally safe for most people, consult your doctor when using magnetic therapy to make sure it doesn't interfere with any ongoing treatment.
History
For centuries, healers and health care practitioners have used magnets to treat pain. According to the National Canter for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, naturally magnetized stones called lodestones were first used by ancient Greeks to treat arthritis. The stones were placed in rings that sat close to the source of the pain. After the Civil War, healers in rural areas of the United States began using magnetic therapy for a variety of reason. Today, many practitioners recommend magnets for pain relief from conditions such as arthritis and fibromyalgia.
Effects
Various studies have come up with differing results in trials using magnetic therapy, according to the National Canter for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. While some reports indicate positive effects from the use of magnets, others found no significant effect. The effects often rely on the strength of the magnet and the length of time it was used by a patient.
Features
Proponents of magnetic therapy for pain relief suggest that magnets work by increasing circulation to the painful areas. By increasing the temperature to the affected body part, the magnets may also reduce pain. Magnets may block nerve sensations that cause pain or they may balance cell regeneration and growth.
Warning
The most serious side effects of magnets affect those patients who rely on implanted medical devices, according to the National Canter for Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Magnets can interrupt proper functioning of insulin pumps, defibrillators and pacemakers. They are not recommended for use on an open wound.
Theories/Speculation
As research continues and the conflicting results abound, various theories about the usefulness of magnetic therapy emerge. According to the Sports Injury Bulletin, athletes who used significantly strong magnets on their knees to treat osteoarthritis pain saw results that made their activities more bearable. Those who contracted carpal tunnel syndrome who used magnets saw no additional pain relief than their peers who wore placebo wrist wraps with no magnets inside, suggesting that there may be a psychological component to magnetic therapy. People who believe the magnets will relieve their pain often feel less pain.
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