Magnetic therapy has many doubters and many believers.

Despite the fact that there has been virtually no scientific testing of magnetic therapy, a growing industry is producing magnetic bracelets, bands, insoles, back braces, mattresses, etc., and claiming miraculous powers for their products. The magnetic therapy market may be approaching $150 million annually.

Even though the evidence is lacking that magnetic therapy has anything other than a placebo effect, theories abound as to how it works. Some say magnets are like a massage; some claim magnets affect the iron in red blood cells; still others claim that magnets create an alkaline reaction in the body.

As mentioned, pain relief is the most common use of magnets. Proponents of magnetic therapy believe that magnets increase the capillary blood flow and may help flush lactic acid and other inflammatory agents that build up tissue to ease pain and inflammation. Because the blood supply also carries oxygen the theory is that increased blood flow may be helpful in relaxing muscles and relieving cramps and spasms that are oxygen starved.

Some supporters of magnetic therapy seem to base their belief on a metaphysical assumption that all illness is due to some sort of imbalance or disharmony in energy. The balance or flow of electromagnetic energy must be restored to restore health, and magnetic therapy is thought by some to be able to do this.

Recommended for Magnetic Therapy

Healthstores.com - Hundreds of magnetic therapy items. Magnetic Therapy Sales Specialists, Inc.