Magnetic Field Therapy

What is Magnetic Therapy?


Magnetic field therapy utilizes various types of magnets applied to the body to enhance overall health and potentially alleviate specific conditions.

There are several categories of magnetic field therapy, including:

  • Static magnetic field therapy: This involves placing a magnet directly on the skin, which can be in the form of a magnetic bracelet, magnetized jewelry, a bandage with a magnet, or a magnet incorporated into a shoe insole. Some individuals also utilize special mattress pads embedded with magnets during sleep.
  • Electrically charged magnetic therapy (electromagnetic therapy): Magnets used in this therapy possess an electric charge, and treatment often involves the administration of electric pulses.
  • Magnetic therapy combined with acupuncture: In this approach, magnets are positioned on the same areas of the skin typically targeted by acupuncturists during acupuncture sessions. These areas are often referred to as energy pathways or channels.

The human body naturally generates magnetic and electric fields, with even the molecules containing a small amount of magnetic energy. Magnetic field therapy operates on the premise that certain health issues arise due to imbalances in these magnetic fields. By introducing a magnetic field close to the body, it is believed that the disrupted balance can be restored.

Ions such as calcium and potassium play a crucial role in facilitating cellular signaling. Studies have shown that magnets can influence the behavior of these ions. However, there is currently insufficient evidence to suggest that magnets exert the same effects on cells when applied to the body.


What is Magnetic Therapy used for?

Magnetic therapy machines are frequently utilized as a treatment option to address various forms of pain, particularly in areas such as the feet and back. However, it has also garnered attention for its potential therapeutic benefits in managing other medical conditions.

While the current evidence remains limited and inconclusive, scientists have specifically conducted studies to explore the applications of magnetic field therapy in the following areas:

  • Arthritis Pain: Studies have been conducted to assess the potential of magnetic field therapy in alleviating pain associated with arthritis, including both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. However, further research is necessary to determine its effectiveness and establish clear guidelines for its application in this context.
  • Wound Healing: The potential of magnetic field therapy to promote wound healing has been investigated in preliminary studies. Research has explored its effects on accelerating the healing process of various types of wounds, including surgical incisions, diabetic ulcers, and pressure sores. Additional research is needed to validate these findings and determine optimal treatment protocols.
  • Insomnia: Magnetic field therapy has been explored as a possible approach to address insomnia, a sleep disorder characterized by difficulties in falling asleep or staying asleep. While initial studies have shown promising results in improving sleep quality, the available evidence is insufficient to draw definitive conclusions or recommend magnetic field therapy as a primary treatment for insomnia.
  • Fibromyalgia Pain: Magnetic field therapy has been explored as a complementary approach to manage pain in individuals with fibromyalgia, a chronic disorder characterized by widespread pain, fatigue, and tender points. While a few studies have reported potential pain relief, further comprehensive and controlled trials are required to determine the effectiveness of magnetic field therapy in addressing the complexities of this condition.

Does Magnetic Therapy work?


The effectiveness of magnetic therapy machines remains a subject of ongoing research, and to date, there is limited scientific evidence available to draw definitive conclusions. While a few studies have been conducted, the data is insufficient to establish conclusive evidence regarding the efficacy of magnetic field therapy in treating various conditions.

In certain clinical trials, magnetic field therapy has shown promise as a potential treatment for back pain. However, it is important to note that the overall body of evidence does not provide clear and consistent proof supporting its effectiveness in addressing a wide range of conditions.

The lack of robust scientific evidence is primarily attributed to the complexity of studying the therapeutic effects of magnetic fields on the human body. Conducting high-quality research in this field is challenging due to factors such as variations in magnetic field strengths, the diversity of magnets used, variations in treatment protocols, and difficulties in creating appropriate control groups for comparison.