Difference Between Copper & Magnets for Arthritis

Arthritis has been causing pain and discomfort for humans for centuries. For most of history, physicians and charlatans alike have tried to find methods of curing arthritis. Copper and magnets have been the two most popular nonmedical treatments for arthritis sufferers.

History of Magnetic and Copper Therapy

• In an attempt to provide relief for arthritis sufferers, ancient Greek physicians created rings out of magnetized metal. During the Civil War, magnets were used in hairbrushes, clothes, shoes and salves, all of which were purported to help with arthritis pain.

Popularity

• Alternative treatments for arthritis have been used for centuries. The two most popular methods are copper and magnet therapy. According to the Arthritis Foundation, more than two-thirds of the 43 million arthritis sufferers have used magnets or copper for arthritis treatment, with magnetic bracelets being the more popular of the two.

Main Differences

• There are few differences between magnets and copper for arthritis treatment. Both have been used for centuries with mixed results. There is more evidence that leans to the effectiveness of magnets for arthritis pain than copper. Unfortunately for arthritis sufferers, both supply nothing more than temporary, short-term relief from arthritis pain and inflammation.

Warnings

• Although copper and magnets are extremely popular alternative treatments for arthritis, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has found no evidence supporting their effectiveness. The FDA and the Federal Trade Commission have even filed legal proceedings against many companies that claim their copper or magnetic products relieve arthritis pain and inflammation.