Magnets & Joint Pain

No matter what the cause, or where the discomfort, joint pain can be bothersome and uncomfortable. Joint pain treatments are vast and varied, including warm baths, massages, diets, and pain medications. One remedy that has attracted attention is the use of magnets.

Significance

• Joint pain can be caused by an injury, overuse, arthritis, and inflammation. The pain can make even simple tasks pain and difficult.

Considerations

• A 2002 study conducted at the Department of Physical Therapy at the University of Texas found the static magnets offered relief for those with chronic knee pain. Participants improved their gait, mobility, movement, and reduced their pain.

Potential

• The use of magnet therapy may help improve circulation, reduce inflammation and swelling, and rid the body of toxins. Magnetic therapy has been used to treat many painful conditions including arthritis, fibromyalgia, and back pain.

Benefits

• A 2004 study published in the British Medical Journal found osteoarthritis patients found relief from knee and hip pain when wearing a magnetic bracelet. The study involved 194 patients and concluded that magnetic therapy can help alleviate joint pain.

Athletes

• Many athletes swear by magnetic therapy. Golfers, tennis players, runners, football players and others can be found sporting magnetic bracelets or braces.

Speculation

• Magnets are used in many braces and are often there for support rather than pain treatment. While those who wear them may find relief, it could be from the brace and support itself, not the magnet.