Magnetic Field Therapy

Alleviate pain naturally through magnet placement

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How can magnetic field therapy nourish you?

The human body naturally produces a low-intensity magnetic field[1], and it has been speculated that magnetic healing therapy may interact with this field to relieve pain and support overall health. This non-invasive form of alternative medicine involves bringing permanent magnets in contact with or close to the skin[2], or using powered electromagnets to create magnetic pulses[3]. Another variety of this modality involves placing static magnets on acupuncture points[4].

Documents dating back at least 2,000 years indicate that natural magnets (or lodestones) were used by Chinese physicians[5] to treat their patients. The discovery of lodestones by other ancient cultures including the Greeks and Egyptians also inspired people to explore[6] their possible healing properties. In the 16th century, the Swiss alchemist and physician Paracelsus, best-known for his discoveries concerning the connection between chemistry and medicine, experimented with magnets for therapeutic purposes[7].

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Practitioner offering Magnetic Field Therapy

Masako Palmer - Guru Devi Masako Palmer profile impression
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Guru Devi
Actively responds
Newtown, New South Wales, Australia
Online
In person
Magnetic Field Therapy
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Actively responds
Newtown, New South Wales, Australia
Online
In person
Magnetic Field Therapy
View profile

Benefits of magnetic field therapy 

Static magnetic therapy involves using permanent magnets placed on your body or integrated into  jewellery or insoles, and is most commonly intended for pain relief. Whether or not static magnets offer greater benefits than sham treatment is a controversial subject, although the results of one study suggest it may be effective for long-term pain relief in people with diabetic neuropathy[8]. 

It has also been reported that static magnetic fields may have statistically significant benefits[9] for arthritis pain relief, and research suggests medical-grade electromagnetic devices may provide lower back pain relief for people suffering from degenerative disc disease[10].

Trials of electromagnetic treatments such as pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) therapy suggest that these artificially induced fields may reduce inflammation[11] and help bone fractures to heal[12]. PEMF may be beneficial for a variety of musculoskeletal conditions, such as reducing neck pain[13] and supporting the healing of shoulder injuries[14], and there is evidence to suggest it may improve quality of sleep[15] for people suffering from insomnia.

A recently developed treatment for depression which involves stimulating specific regions of the brain using a rapidly pulsed magnetic field[16] is called repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS). Clinical trials suggest rTMS may be as effective as electroconvulsive therapy[17] (ECT or electroshock treatment) in alleviating the symptoms of major depression.

Magnetic field therapy may assist in relieving symptoms related to:

ADD/ADHD Alcohol and drug addiction Arthritis, rheumatism and osteoarthritis Back pain Blood pressure Circulation and cardiovascular conditions Concentration, focus and problem solving Depression Detoxing and cleansing Diabetes Fertility and reproductive issues Headaches and migraines Heart conditions and heart attack Infections Inflammation and swelling Insomnia and sleep disorders Jaw, teeth and gum issues Liver issues Memory and cognitive function Muscle spasm, tightness and cramps Neck pain Osteoporosis and bone density Pain relief Parkinson’s disease Posture and spine issues Respiratory and breathing issues Scars, burns and wound healing Shoulder and elbow issues Skin, hair and nail issues Sports injuries Sprains, strains and ligament injuries Stress and tension Weight control and obesity Wrinkles Show all

What to expect from a magnetic field therapy session

Using permanent magnets for pain relief is usually a self-administered treatment, although some therapists place magnets on acupuncture points instead of needles[18].

If you are undergoing rTMS therapy for depression, your therapist will start by explaining the treatment to you, providing support and answering any questions[19]. You will be asked to remove any items that might be affected by magnetic fields, such as jewellery, and given hearing protection[20]. 

The treatment takes place while you are fully conscious and seated in a comfortable chair, and your therapist will position an electromagnetic coil over a precise area [21]of your head. Most people report that the treatment produces a tapping sensation, and it typically lasts about 20-45 minutes[22]. Your ability to drive will not be affected, but some people feel more comfortable[23] about someone else taking them home after treatment.

Magnetic field therapy is not suitable for people with implanted medical devices such as a pacemaker or insulin pump, as even weak magnetic fields may interfere with their function[24]. It is often advised that you do not undergo magnetic field therapy if you are pregnant, or might be. Research suggests that TMS for depression is unlikely to pose a risk during pregnancy[25], but further trials are recommended.

As with any exercise or wellness program, please consult your medical professional before commencing magnetic field therapy. If you have an injury or other health issue, or any concerns at all, also speak to your magnetic field therapist, who will be happy to address these and advise you on how suitable this treatment might be for you. 

References

 

  1. Cohen D, Palti Y, Cuffin BN, Schmid SJ. Magnetic fields produced by steady currents in the body. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences; 1980 Mar 1.
  2. What Is Magnetic Field Therapy? WebMD [cited 2024 Oct 23].
  3. What is Electromagnetic Therapy? RWJ Barnabas Health [cited 2024 Oct 23].
  4. Magnetic Therapy. The Natural Group [cited 2024 Oct 23].
  5. Magnet Therapy. Winchester Hospital [cited 2024 Oct 23].
  6. Magnetic Healing Through the Ages. Neurologica Blog [cited 2024 Oct 23].
  7. Philippus Aureolus Paracelsus. Authors Calendar [cited 2024 Oct 23].
  8. Static magnetic field therapy for symptomatic diabetic neuropathy. Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation [cited 2024 Oct 23].
  9. Two Configurations of Static Magnetic Fields for Treating Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Knee. PubMed [cited 2024 Oct 23].
  10. Electromagnetic fields in the treatment of chronic lower back pain in patients with degenerative disc disease. PMC [cited 2024 Oct 23].
  11. Pulsed Electromagnetic Fields Increased the Anti-Inflammatory Effect of A2A and A3 Adenosine Receptors PLOS ONE [cited 2024 Oct 23].
  12. Pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) treatment for fracture healing. Current Orthopaedic Practice [cited 2024 Oct 23].
  13. Are SPA therapy and pulsed electromagnetic field therapy effective for chronic neck pain? Europe PMC [cited 2024 Oct 23].
  14. Role of pulsed electromagnetic fields (PEMF) on tenocytes and myoblasts. Journal of Orthopaedic Research [cited 2024 Oct 23].
  15. Impulse Magnetic-Field Therapy for Insomnia. PubMed [cited 2024 Oct 23].
  16. Transcranial magnetic stimulation. Mayo Clinic [cited 2024 Oct 23].
  17. Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS). Department of Health, Government of Western Australia [cited 2024 Oct 23].
  18. Japanese Acupuncture Techniques - Magnet Therapy. Yin Yang House [cited 2024 Oct 23].
  19. Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic stimulation (rTMS). Black Dog Institute [cited 2024 Oct 23].
  20. Frequently Asked Questions About TMS. Johns Hopkins Medicine [cited 2024 Oct 23].
  21. What happens during rTMS treatment? Psychiatry Centre [cited 2024 Oct 23].
  22. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). Metro South Health, Queensland Government [cited 2024 Oct 23].
  23. rTMS Frequently Asked Questions. Neurocare Group [cited 2024 Oct 23].
  24. What is Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy? Pulse for Health [cited 2024 Oct 23].
  25. Randomized Controlled Trial of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation in Pregnant Women With Major Depressive Disorder. Brain Stimulation [cited 2024 Oct 23].

Frequently asked questions

Magnetic field therapy involves the use of permanent magnets or electromagnets placed close to the skin to interact with the body's natural magnetic field. It is believed to relieve pain and support overall health through non-invasive methods.

The use of magnets for therapeutic purposes dates back at least 2,000 years, with Chinese physicians using natural magnets to treat patients. Historical experiments by figures like Paracelsus in the 16th century have contributed to the exploration of magnetic field therapy.

Magnetic field therapy is often used to address pain relief and promote general well-being. While research is ongoing, some proponents suggest it may assist in managing conditions like arthritis, inflammation, and other health concerns.

There are various types of magnetic field therapy, including placing permanent magnets on or near the skin, using electromagnets to create magnetic pulses, and applying static magnets to specific acupuncture points. Each method aims to harness the potential healing properties of magnets.

Generally considered safe, magnetic field therapy has minimal side effects. However, individuals with certain medical devices like pacemakers or those with specific health conditions should consult with a healthcare professional before undergoing magnetic therapy.

While research is ongoing, studies on magnetic field therapy have shown mixed results. Some suggest positive effects in pain management and improved well-being, while others indicate inconclusive evidence. It's essential to stay informed about the latest research findings in this field.

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