Magnetic Therapy For Arthritis Pain Relief

Magnetic bracelets can be Magical!

The use of magnetic bracelets for the relief of arthritis pain is a highly controversial subject. Supporters and sellers of these products claim amazing, long-lasting results from millions of delighted users, while most of the medical and scientific profession say that there is no clinical evidence of any perceived benefit other than from a placebo effect.  

Interestingly, a similar situation exists in the case of Glucosamine and Chondroitin. Two scientific clinical trials were held, one in Switzerland and one in the United States and they came to different conclusions concerning the effectiveness of glucosamine and chondroitin in the relief of arthritis pain. In spite of this, glucosamine is still a billion dollar market worldwide. Read about both trials at Glucosamine and Chondroitin   

How does it work?

So how is magnetic therapy claimed to work? Nobody really knows but there various theories. The special magnetic fields "condition" the blood flow, leading to improved circulation to the affected joint or painful spot. The magnets work on the iron content in the hemoglobin in the blood. Poor or restricted circulation is a known factor in many joint problems.

The skeptics are of the opinion that first, the hemoglobin content is too small to be affected and second, the strength of the magnets is far to weak to have any effect. However, not all doctors and physicians share this view. Google can produce many who are avid supporters of magnetic therapy, such as:
"There's no doubt about it - millions of people can be helped from chronic pain by the use of magnets."
- W. Bradley Worthington, M.D., Former President of the Tennessee Society of Anesthesiologists

The pro-magnets lobby can point to many thousands of glowing testimonials, citing "miraculous" results to a wide variety of illnesses and complaints. They are also very quick produce celebrities, from the fields of sports, film and other areas of public life, who are equally enthusiastic about these products. 

Anthony Hopkins, Arnold Palmer, Dan Marino, Bill Clinton, Dick Van Dyke, Jim Colbert, Hank Aaron and many more have given their support for these products.

So, What Are The Advantages of Magnetic Bracelets? 

• They are quick, convenient and painless to use.
• There are few reports of any significant side effects.
• Products range widely in price, with a huge selection.
• There is a real possibility of long term benefits at a once-only cost.

Disadvantages

• They may be a complete waste of money! (But most reputable suppliers give a money-back guarantee, of  several months duration -sometimes six or even twelve months. This must be a good sign. If they were selling junk, they would soon be out of business).
• Some of the magnetic bracelets are very expensive, especially the costume jewelry for ladies.
• A placebo effect may lead to short-term euphoria, followed by later realism.

A Final Thought

An interesting development has raised a question that the skeptics struggle to answer. Canine arthritis is very common, especially in older dogs. Arthritis also occurs in cats but to a lesser degree. Treating arthritis in dogs can be vey difficult. Hands-on treatment can cause the animal more pain and distress and the thick coat on many breeds makes any oil or gel unsuitable. Many of the drugs sold for canine arthritis get a very poor press from distressed owners.

There are thousands of testimonials from delighted dog owners for the remedial effects of magnetic dog collars. Old and infirm dogs are transformed by this simple device and where this is the only change in treatment. The dog has no idea that this smart new collar is going to take away his pain and stiffness, so there can be no placebo effect here. The animal's behavior before and after fitting the collar is really a true test.

If it works for Dogs, why not for People?