About Bio-Magnetic Relief Therapy for Arthritis
Magnets have been used for centuries to treat a number of disorders. Several studies have looked at the use of magnetic therapy applied to osteoarthritic areas to determine if this kind of therapy can work. Two kinds of magnets are used: electromagnets and static magnets. Biomagnetic relief therapy uses a variety of static magnets for the treatment of arthritis pain and other conditions.
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Definition
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Biomagnetic therapy is the art and science of the application and removal of magnetic fields for therapeutic benefit. Permanent magnets called biomagnets are used in this therapy. The therapy is said to be effective when combined with a reduction of stressful electromagnetic fields. Since 1995, the Biomagnetic Therapy Association has been committed to education and research. They believe there is a difference between the use of the negative and positive poles of a magnet.
Theories
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Several theories explain how magnets can offer relief. One theory is that the static magnets made out of solid metal can change how cells function in the body. Another theory suggests that because there is iron in the metal, blood may be a conductor of the magnetic energy. Practitioners of biomagnetic therapy believe that permanent magnets enhance the body's capability for electron transfer, which is the basis for all chemical reactions in the body.
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Different Magnets
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Historically, static magnets have always been used. These magnets are generally used today in bracelets, mattress pads and shoe inserts. Electromagnets are used in all current research for treating bone and muscle pain, osteoarthritis, migraines, chronic pelvic pain and depression. While static magnets have not been proven to show results, in 1979 the FDA did approve the use of electromagnetic therapy for some types of bone fractures.
Yesterday and Today
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Magnetic therapy is an ancient therapy. It was used during the Middle Ages to treat arthritis, gout, poisoning and baldness. More recently magnets have been used in relief therapy to treat fibromyalgia, high blood pressure, depression, stress, bone fractures, knee pain, and arthritis, among other conditions. People in the United States spend approximately $500 million each year on some form of magnetic therapy.
Clinical Opinion
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According to the Mayo Clinic, magnetic therapy continues to be an area of active research. In the area of arthritic pain relief, several studies have looked at magnetic therapy applied to osteoarthritic areas, or areas of degenerative joint disease, to see if the therapy can reduce pain. While the research is showing promise, evidence to its effectiveness is still evolving.
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