Home > Encyclopedia of Medicine > Magnetic Field Therapy

Definition

Magnetic therapy is the use of magnets to relieve pain in various areas of the body.

Purpose

Some of the benefits that magnetic therapy claims to provide include:

• pain relief
• reduction of swelling
• improved tissue alkalinization
• more restful sleep
• increased tissue oxygenation
• relief of stress
• increased levels of cellular oxygen
• improved blood circulation
• anti-infective activity

Description

Origins

Magnetic therapy dates as far back as the ancient Egyptians. Magnets have long been believed to have healing powers associated with muscle pain and stiffness. Chinese healers as early as 200 B.C. were said to use magnetic lodestones on the body to correct unhealthy imbalances in the flow of qi, or energy. The ancient...