How It Works and What the Benefits of Magnetotherapy

Magnetotherapy is a natural treatment alternative that uses magnets and their magnetic fields to increase the movement of some cells and body substances, such as water, in order to obtain effects such as decrease of pain, increase of cellular regeneration or reduction of inflammation, for example.

In order to do this technique, the magnets can be inserted into bands of fabric, bracelets, shoes and other objects, so that they are kept close to the place to be treated, or the magnetic field can be produced by a small device that is placed close to the skin, at the site to be treated.

The intensity of the magnetic field as well as the size of the magnets must be adapted to the type of problem to be treated and therefore the magnet therapy must always be done by a qualified therapist in order to adapt it correctly to the needs of each person.

Main benefits

Due to the effects of magnetic fields on the human body, some studies indicate benefits such as:

1. Increased blood circulation, since the magnetic field can reduce the contraction of blood vessels;
2. Rapid relief of pain, as it stimulates the production of endorphins, which are natural analgesic substances;
3. Decreased inflammation due to increased circulation and reduced blood pH;
4. Increased regeneration of cells, tissues and bones because it improves the functioning of cells
5. Preventing premature aging and the onset of diseases, as it eliminates toxins that damage cells and detract from health.

To obtain this type of benefits, magnetotherapy must be repeated for more than one session, and the treatment time must be indicated by the therapist according to the problem to be treated and the intensity of the magnetic field.

When it is used

This technique can be used whenever it is necessary and possible to speed up the recovery process. Thus, it is sometimes used in physical therapy to assist in the treatment of fractures, osteoporosis, nerve damage, rheumatoid arthritis, tendinitis, epicondylitis or osteoarthritis, for example.

In addition, due to its cellular regeneration effect, magnetotherapy may also be indicated by nurses or physicians in the healing process of difficult wounds such as scar tissue or diabetic foot.

Who should not use

Although it has several benefits, magnetotherapy can not be used in all cases, especially due to all the changes it causes in the body. Thus, it is contraindicated in cases of:

• Cancer anywhere on the body;
• Hyperthyroidism or exaggerated functioning of the adrenal glands;
• Myasthenia gravis;
• Active bleeding;
• Fungal or viral infections.

In addition, this technique should be used with caution in patients with frequent seizures, severe atherosclerosis, low blood pressure, anticoagulant therapy or severe psychiatric disorders.

Patients with pacemakers should only use magnetotherapy after approval of the cardiologist, since the magnetic field may alter the electrical rhythm adjustment of some pacemakers.