Information on Magnetic Therapy

What is magnetic field therapy? Magnetic field therapy uses magnets to maintain health and treat illness. The human body and the earth naturally produce electric and magnetic fields. Electromagnetic fields also can be technologically produced, such as radio and television currents. Practitioners of magnetic field therapy believe that interactions between the body, the earth, and other electromagnetic fields cause physical and emotional changes in humans. They also believe that the body's electromagnetic field must be in balance to maintain good health. Magnetic field therapy is applied on the outside of the body. The magnets may be: Electrically charged to deliver an electrical pulse to the treated area. Used with acupuncture needles to treat energy pathways in the body. Static (not electrically charged) and stationary on the treated area for periods of time to deliver continuous treatment. What is magnetic field therapy used for? Magnet therapy is used for a wide range of health problems, including: Joint problems, such as arthritis. Migraine headaches. Pain, including mild to moderate pain after surgery and long-term (chronic) pain. Depression. Cancer. Overstretched muscles or injuries to muscles, ligaments, and tendons (strains and sprains). Magnetic field therapy has not been proven effective in the treatment of any illness. Is magnetic field therapy safe? Magnetic field therapy is not recommended for young children or pregnant women because the safety of this therapy is not proven. People who have medical devices or implants with a magnetic field, such as pacemakers, should not use magnet therapy because it could interfere with the function of the implant. Magnet therapy is not thought to have negative side effects or complications when combined with conventional medical treatment, but its effects remain unproven. Always tell your health professional if you are using an alternative therapy or if you are thinking about combining an alternative therapy with your conventional medical treatment. It may not be safe to forgo your conventional medical treatment and rely only on an alternative therapy. Article written by: Paul Lehnert, Reviewed by Adam Husney, MD, Family Medicine.