Today, we will be talking about a topic that is not so common, magnetic therapy. In this guide, we’ll focus on what is magnetic therapy, the types of magnetic therapy, its history, the benefits associated with it, pieces of magnetic jewelry, etc. When we’re done, you will know everything you need to, about magnetic therapy.
Let’s jump right into it!
What is magnetic therapy?
Magnetic Therapy is the use of a variety of magnets on the body to help in pain management.
The principle behind magnetic therapy involves the production of a therapeutic magnetic field by utilizing static magnets.
In recent times, many health professionals such as massage therapists, physiotherapists, chiropractors, nutritionists, and neurologists have slowly been embracing the idea. And why not, it’s an effective method to help boost overall health.
Types of Magnetic Therapy
There are different types of magnetic therapy, static magnetic field therapy and electromagnetic therapy being the major two. They will be further discussed along with an additional one known as acupuncture magnetic therapy.
1) Static magnetic field therapy: This involves applying a permanent magnet to an area of your body to relieve pain. It could simply involve wearing a piece of magnetized jewelry or just sleeping with a piece of magnet inside your pillow. Static magnetic therapy is utilized in several products, a few of which include:
- Jewelry
- Body wraps and belts
- Insoles
- Mattress toppers
- Horse wraps, rugs, and boots
- Pet collars, beds, and coats
- Pillows
2) Electromagnetic therapy: Electromagnetic therapy, also known as Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy (PEMF), involves the use of magnets with an electric charge. Treatment and relief typically come through the electric pulse provided by the magnet. Orthopedists normally use this technique when the patient requires an electromagnetic pulse to be directly applied to an injury.
N.B – Electromagnetic therapy has been accredited by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as early as 1991 for the treatment of swelling and palliative postoperative pain. It is mostly for treating the surface of soft tissue.
3) Acupuncture magnetic therapy: This involves placing magnets on your skin, exactly where your acupuncture points would be located. So, whereas an acupuncturist would use needles, magnets are used on your energy channels instead.
Brief History of Magnetic Therapy
You would be surprised to know that magnetic therapy has an ancient heritage. As early as 2000 years ago, magnetic therapy played a crucial role in Chinese medicine, proving effective in relieving certain body aches and pains. Research has shown that magnetic therapy had been around in early writings in India, Egypt, and Greece. So this principle long existed before today.
It had not been until recent times, that scientists have finally discovered the principles behind the health benefits involved with magnetism. The NASA space program recently discovered that utilizing magnetic field generators significantly helps in maintaining the health of the astronauts.
How magnetic therapy works?
One thing that you might not have known is that your body is made up of naturally occurring electric and magnetic fields. Every molecule in your body contains traces of magnetic energy. The theory suggests that when your body is experiencing problems, it is because your magnetic fields are affected or out of balance. Therefore, if you put a magnet (magnetic field) near your body or the affected area, the issue will eventually resolve itself, as your magnetic fields are realigned.
Recent studies have shown that magnets can affect how certain chemicals and ions work in the body. For example, studies have shown that magnets affect how calcium and potassium ions work and send signals. If you can speed up or slow down a response in the body, you can understand how a magnet may be used to improve certain conditions.
What are the benefits of magnetic therapy?
Magnetic therapy has many benefits to the body such as relieving pain. Recent studies have shown that as an adjunct therapy, it is capable of treating:
- multi sclerosis (MS)
- tissue
and bone injury - osteo and rheumatoid arthritis
- psychiatric disorders
- stress
- sleep disorders
- neuropathy
- post-polio pain
- pain syndromes
- genital pain
Of course, these are just a few of the health conditions it has been proven to cure and/or improve. Scientists suggest that it is only because magnetic therapy provides anti-inflammatory effects. If you haven’t already been convinced of the health benefits that magnetic therapy has, let me give you some additional info. Not only has magnetic therapy been proven to cure these disorders, but it has also been found to:
- Reduce inflammation
- Enhance immune function
- Reduce pain
- Correct energy imbalances
- Increase circulation for old injuries.
If you haven’t gotten your piece of magnetic charm, you might want to look into it. Luckily, that’s what we discuss in the next section.
Main magnetic therapy jewelry
The number of magnets present, and the strength of your magnetic therapy jewelry will be dependent on the type of accessory you purchase. Magnetic therapy jewelry can come in the form of a necklace, bracelet, rings, anklets, and earrings.
While the effect of the therapeutic jewelry will largely depend on you, the wearer, and the number of magnets present, here are a couple of guidelines I’ll share with you to maximize the effects.
1) Place the jewelry where you are experiencing pain: For example, if you’re experiencing carpal tunnel syndrome, then you might want to get yourself a magnetic bracelet to target the pain in your wrist. Follow this principle for the pain you might be experiencing elsewhere.
2) Skin contact: Ensure the magnetic jewelry is in direct contact with your skin, especially the affected area. However, do not wear it directly on a wound.
3) Water Contact: Try to purchase water-resistant magnetic therapy jewelry if you will be working around water. Titanium, stainless steel, and silicone magnetic jewelry are great options.
Is magnetic therapy safe?
Magnets are natural resources from the earth and all research indicates so far that they are a safe form of therapy. According to a study done in 1987 by the World Health Organisation (WHO), magnets used in magnetic therapy have no detrimental effect on the body. So, you do not need to worry.
Who can’t use magnetic therapy jewelry?
As with any other treatment, there are general precautions that should be taken when dealing with magnetic therapy. While it is generally safe for majority use, a few cases where it is advised against include:
- Patients with an epilepsy history
- Patients taking blood-thinning medications
- Pregnant women
- Individuals wearing electronic medical devices, such as pacemakers
- Patients with insulin pumps
- Individuals with metal implants
- Small children are prone to swallow them.
If you fall under any of the categories listed above, then it is in your best interest to avoid magnetic therapy treatment. In addition, avoid wearing magnetic jewelry near or on fresh wounds and remove magnetic jewelry before doing an MRI or X-ray.
FAQs on Magnetic Therapy
Will Magnetic Therapy Work for me?
Yes, there is a high possibility that magnetic therapy might work for you. Currently, around the world, it is estimated that nearly 140 million people use magnetic therapy with a success rate between 75 – 95%. The chances increase when you use supplementing treatments.
How Long Should I Wear a Magnetic Product?
That’s up to you. Some people use magnetic devices only when they are feeling pain while others wear them all the time. There are no drawbacks involved with wearing magnetic devices for an extended period.
If anything, the longer you wear them, the more your overall health will increase.
How Quick Can One Expect Results?
Studies have shown that some people experience results within minutes. However, the majority express that they get relief within hours, and some not until several weeks. There is no specific timeframe, but you can be assured that it works.
How Long Will Magnets Last?
With proper care, magnetic devices can last a lifetime.
Will a Fridge Magnet Work?
No, a normal fridge magnet doesn’t have the penetrating power required for it to be biologically effective.
Is magnetic therapy suitable for children?
Small children should be kept away from magnetic devices due to the possibility of it being a choking hazard. There is not enough evidence that prohibits the use of such devices by older children, but it is advised that you consult your doctor first.
Final Thoughts
Magnetic therapy is not only safe but there are many benefits associated with using it. It helps with relieving pain, reducing inflammation, enhancing immune function, relieving sleep disorders, it’s a stress reliever and that’s just to list a few.
So, if you are within the majority who can use magnetic therapy treatment, why not get your piece of magnetic jewelry today? Place your order today and start reaping the benefits in little to no time. All the best!
