A herniated disc can be a very painful condition. Treatments for herniated discs include physical therapy, traction, epidurals, ultrasound, low-power laser therapy, surgery or magnetic therapy. Each of these treatment modalities has its proponents and opponents, but none is quite as controversial as magnetic therapy.
Herniated Disc Symptoms
A herniated disc, sometimes called a slipped disc or a bulging disc, can press against a nerve in the spinal column and cause pain. Herniation of a disc can occur in the neck or lower back. When a disc in the neck becomes herniated, pain can affect the shoulder and arm. A lower back disc herniation can cause pain in the hips, buttocks or legs. Numbness, tingling or muscle weakness may also be experienced in parts of the body served by the affected nerves, according to MayoClinic.com.
Magnetic Therapy History
During the 16th century, the powers of magnetism became a subject of study and treatment for ill health. Throughout the centuries, medical doctors, researchers and mental health workers have taken up the study of magnetism for treatments of physical and mental disorders. In recent times, magnetic therapy has gained renewed interest from the medical field. “Magneto-therapy, ironically, is both one of the oldest forms of medical treatment and one of the newest," according to Rajendar Menen, author of "The Miraculous Healing Power." "It is only now that this remarkable healing modality is being explored. And it is returning the favor with impressive results.”
Magnetic Therapy Treatment
Magnets used for healing are called biomagnets. Biomagnets effect healing by increasing blood circulation to the herniated disc area, balancing pH levels and hormones, and by drawing calcium ions to heal nerves and bone, according to proponents of magnetic therapy. Practitioners of magnetic therapy indicate that side effects can occur, such as lightheadedness, sleepiness and itching, due to the release of toxins when the body’s magnetic balance is restored. Use of magnets in treating a herniated disc involves the application of magnets to the affected area with attention given to the direction of the magnetic poles. A magnetic therapy practitioner determines the needs of the individual based upon examination findings.
Research
Thomas Skalak, professor and chair of biomedical engineering at the University of Virginia, conducted research to determine if magnetic therapy increases blood flow. Skalak's conclusions were positive, with implications for magnetic therapy reducing swelling at injury sites. However, a study conducted by E.A. Collacott et al. indicated that bipolar magnetic therapy had no significant effect on patients with chronic low back pain. Results of these two studies at first glance appear to yield contradictory conclusions regarding the efficacy of magnetic therapy for herniated discs. However, it must be taken into consideration that one study focused on recent injury while the other study focused on a chronic condition. This review of the literature indicates that magnetic therapy is helpful when a herniated disc is due to a recent injury.
Warnings
If you have a herniated disc and neurological symptoms become progressively worse, or if bowel or bladder dysfunction occurs, seek medical advice immediately.
Consult a medical doctor before beginning any new treatment.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Herniated Disk
- Spine-Health.com: Treatment Options for a Lumbar Herniated Disc
- PubMed: Comparison of Three Physical Therapy Modalities for Acute Pain in Lumbar Disc Herniation...
- SpineUniverse: Magnet Therapy
- The Miraculous Healing Power; Rajendar Menen
- UVA Today: Biomedical Engineering Study Demonstrates the Healing Value of Magnets
- PubMed: Bipolar Permanent Magnets for the Treatment of Chronic Low Back Pain
