Electromagnetic fields are with us constantly. The Earth has its own magnetic field aligned with the North and South Poles, and even the cells of the human body carry the subtlest of magnetic forces.

Conventional medicine uses electronic equipment to generate electromagnetic fields. These have an influence on the natural electrical currents of the human body and are beneficial to the patient�s health. Exponents of alternative therapies are convinced that common magnets can do the same. Which is why in Japan and Eastern Europe especially magnetic objects like bands or bracelets round the wrist are used to treat all kinds of disorders and traumatological problems.

�

What is magnetotherapy?
It is a therapeutic technique which consists of the application of artificial magnetic fields of a certain frequency and intensity to a part of the human body affected by some kind of dysfunction or trauma. In short it is a matter of subjecting the affected area to a magnetic field similar to the Earth�s natural one which we are all subject to. But with the added advantage that while the Earth�s magnetic field exerts a constant 0.5 gauss, artificial magnetic fields can be applied with a higher intensity, and the frequency and period of exposure can be precisely controlled.

�

What is it for?
According to experts the atoms of iron in the blood�s red corpuscles respond to magnetism. That explains why when a magnet is placed on a patient�s body, the blood flow in that area increases, which leads to an improvement in the supply of oxygen to the cells, stimulates the metabolism and helps to eliminate waste products.

�

Generally speaking magnetotherapy tends to be used more as a self-help treatment. Products like insoles for shoes, magnetic bracelets, hairbrushes, mattresses, pillows and car seat covers are typical examples. Their use is thought to ease muscular pain, bring relief to arthritis or rheumatism sufferers, stimulate the immune system and improve blood circulation.

�

There is an increasing amount of clinical research into the benefits of magnetotherapy. In 1959, US surgeons discovered a way to regenerate the amputated limbs of amphibians by the use of electromagnetic fields. As a result of this discovery magnetic therapy started to be applied to the healing of human bone fractures.

�

In 1990, a study by the University of Hawaii discovered that electromagnetic fields could be used to treat osteoporosis, and currently many surgeons are using it to treat bone fractures, wounds which won�t heal, swelling and deep vein thrombosis.

�

And in 1996, a study published in the journal The Lancet, demonstrated that magnetic stimulation of the brain helps to treat depressive disorders.

�

A warning
In some cases it should not be used due to possible side effects, such as cell swelling, opening of pre-capillary sphincters or lymphocyte proliferation. It should therefore not be used in cases of patients with an active infection, patients who are bleeding, or have a pacemaker fitted, or have a tumour. Neither should magnetotherapy be used on pregnant women, or people undergoing treatment with hydrocortisone or suffering from vascular obstructions.

�

Most commonly used products
� Magnetic bands. They can be worn on knees, elbows, ankles and wrists. They are thought to ease muscular pain and bring relief to arthritis and rheumatism sufferers.
� Beds. Sleeping on a magnetic bed is believed to recharge the body�s magnetism, stimulate the immune system and improve the circulation. The negative pole has a calming effect and helps you to enjoy a deep sleep.
� Magnetised water. If you drink water from a jug that has been standing on a negative pole for 24 hours it will improve your digestion.
� Insoles. They transmit a small negative charge to the sole of your feet. It is thought to noticeably improve circulation, energy and stamina.