Magnetic Energy Fields
Magnetic therapy is based on the theory that the energy fields produced by magnets can infiltrate the human body and repair various abnormalities and return the affected cells and organs to health.
According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), promoters of magnetic mattress pads and other magnetic devices (rings, bracelets and necklaces) claim their products can relieve arthritis and headache pain, mend broken bones and improve blood flow. However, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has stated that magnets have absolutely no medicinal value.
Promoted Benefits
Magnetic mattress pads are touted as having the ability to reduce the cellular stress level in the body that promoters say accelerates aging.
The pads are commonly marketed as possibly alleviating golfer's and tennis elbow, tendinitis (inflammation of the tendons), chronic fatigue and sciatica (pain, weakness, numbness, or tingling in the leg). The pads are also said to make the body more alkaline (less acidic), thereby improving overall health.
Some proponents claim that negative magnetic fields can offset the effects of addictive drugs and other destructive substances.
Magnetic Positioning
Magnetic mattress pads are sold in various sizes to fit any type of bed. These supposedly therapeutic pads may vary slightly depending on the manufacturer.
Some promoters of magnetic mattress pads say that high strength magnets used in the pads are situated to point north, directly toward the body. This position is advertised as offering optimal magnetic penetration. The magnetic energy is purported to enhance circulation to damaged and/or inflamed joints and muscles. The improved energy flow is thought to improve the quality of sleep and ease pain in the lower back, legs and feet.
High Density Foam Pads
Some manufacturers of magnetic mattress pads say super high density foam pads provide more complete magnetic field coverage. These pads are geared toward people with high blood pressure, diabetes, fibromyalgia and arthritis. The magnetic energy in the pads is said to alter the structure of calcium molecules to prevent them from accumulating on the joints and bones. According to some ads for magnetic pads, this build up is what causes most arthritis.
The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMSD) says arthritis may be due to a number of factors, including wear and tear on the joints or other injuries. The NIAMSD says calcium deposits where the tendon attaches to the bone may be one of the signs of reactive arthritis also known as Reiter's syndrome. Reactive arthritis occurs in response to an infection elsewhere in the body.
