Medical Uses of Magnets

A magnet is simply an object that produces its own magnetic field and attracts metals like iron, nickel and cobalt. Modern medical use of magnets ranges from the driving force behind Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) equipment to small pads and rings meant to be worn on the body.

Products

• Companies geared toward alternative healing produce magnetic devices such as shoe inserts, bracelets and mattress pads.

History

• The use of magnets in healing goes back at least to the 3rd century A.D., when Greek physicians treated arthritis with magnetic rings. By the Middle Ages, the use had expanded to include gout, poisoning, baldness and more.

Side Effects

• The only known side effect of magnetic therapy occurs if you have a pacemaker or defibrillator implanted in your body. Magnets worn in close proximity can interfere with the operation of such devices.

Significance

• Today, in certain quarters, the use of magnets in treating ailments like arthritis and fibromyalgia continues unabated, especially for foot and back pain.

The Facts

• The majority of evidence supporting the effectiveness of medical magnet use is anecdotal. No major studies have supported the claim. The closest was a National Institute of Health study of back pain that concluded magnets may offer a small amount of pain relief.