Osteoarthritis, muscle pain, insomnia, migraines, back pain… The field of action of magnet therapy is vast. How does magnetic therapy work? What are the benefits for the body? What are the side effects, if any? To learn more about therapeutic magnets and their effectiveness, continue reading this article without further delay.
Definition: what is magnetotherapy?
Magnetic therapy is an unconventional practice that calls for the use of continuous magnetic fields for therapeutic purposes. It requires the use of magnets. In magnetic therapy, magnets are used to treat many problems, such as chronic pain, migraines, healing disorders, or even insomnia.
There are two main categories of magnets: static magnets Where permanentwhose electromagnetic field is stable, and the pulsed magnets, whose magnetic field fluctuates. Unlike static magnets, pulsating magnets must be plugged into an electrical source.
Most over-the-counter magnets fall into the first category. And for good reason, static magnets are low intensity. It is therefore possible to use it independently and individually. Pulsed magnets are marketed in the form of small portable devices or are used in the office under medical supervision.
How does magnetotherapy work?
The effectiveness of therapeutic magnets would be based on the combination of three actions:
- First, the therapeutic magnets would reduce the action potential of the C fibers of the peripheral nerves. In other words, they would reduce the transmission to the brain of pain messages carried by the nerves of the painful area;
- Then they would induce a very low electric current in the subcutaneous vessels of the area where they are applied. It is good to underline that the electric current is not perceptible by the conscience of the patient. Magnetotherapy would thus be based on the principle of magnetic conduction, that is to say, Faraday’s law. The brain identifies the so-called “aggressor” sign, locates it and in response, produces endorphins, which it directs through the bloodstream to the area of the electromagnetic signal. The secretion of endorphins would thus make it possible to soothe the pain;
- Finally, the therapeutic magnets would restore the original magnetic field of the injured area for a return to normal. This is the return to the state ofmagnetic homeostasis.
Good to know : the mode of action of magnetotherapy is still shrouded in mystery. The hypotheses put forward so far have not yet been proven. The scientific evidence of the effectiveness of therapeutic magnets remains, to date, few. Nevertheless, some studies show a positive influence on certain diseases.
The benefits of magnetic therapy
Magnetic therapy is indicated to relieve many ailments, including:
- Osteoarthritis : Therapeutic magnets are effective against osteoarthritis, in particular, osteoarthritis of the knee. According to several studies, magnetotherapy allows, in fact, the reduction of pain and other physical symptoms;
- fractures : pulsed magnets are frequently used in allopathic medicine when fractures, especially fractures of long bones such as the tibia, are slow to heal. This is a proven technique, displaying very good efficiency rates;
- Multiple sclerosis : pulsed electromagnetic fields would help relieve the symptoms of multiple sclerosis. Magnetic therapy is said to have an antispasmodic effect, reduce fatigue and improve bladder control, cognitive functions, mobility and vision;
- Migraines : magnetotherapy helps to fight headaches, like lapis lazuli, in lithotherapy. Pulsed electromagnetic fields contribute, in fact, to reducing the intensity and frequency of migraines and certain types of headaches.
Magnetic therapy can be useful for relieving pain related to other health problems, such asarthritisthe tendonitisthe low back painor even the rheumatoid arthritis. It may also be effective in treating sleep disorders, such as insomnia. The use of therapeutic magnets can also intervene in case of back painof feetof knees or of pelvic pain. In addition, magnetic therapy can help healing.
Magnetotherapy: side effects and contraindications
Therapeutic magnets are not the cause ofno side effects. Being for external use, there is therefore no habituation effect. Magnetotherapy is based, above all, on continuous magnetic fields. Therefore, there is no health risk.
However, magnetotherapy is not recommended for pacemaker carriers and of insulin pump. The reason ? Pacemakers and other similar devices can be disturbed by the action of electromagnetic fields. The bearers of skin patches must also refrain from practicing magnetotherapy.
The use of therapeutic magnets is not recommended for people with blood circulation disorders and for people with hypotension. As a precaution, magnetotherapy is contraindicated in pregnant women during the first three months of pregnancy.
What to remember about magnetotherapy?
Magnetic therapy does not cure, strictly speaking. It is, however, effective in relieving the symptoms of certain health problems, which is not negligible. In short, magnet therapy is good practice for dealing with pain.
Take care of yourself;