Pain Relief Through Magnetics: Real or Imagined?

A new article (January, 2005) from the Center for Medical Consumers considers non-drug approaches to treating osteoarthritis pain and highlights the use af magnetic bracelets. Read it now. As in the BMJ study, there is some question as to whether the positive responses to magnetic bracelets is clinically proven or whether there is a placebo effect involved.

First, there is evidence in animal studies that therapeutic magnetics lessen musculo-skeletal pain. Obviously, animals are immune to a placebo influence, furthering prior findings that therapeutic magnetics are, in fact, beneficial for the reduction of specific types of pain.

Secondly, assume for the sake of argument, that the only positive benefit of therapeutic magnetics is a placebo effect. Does it matter? The pain is reduced and the patient is more comfortable. Since magnetic therapy does not replace traditional medical therapy, nor will it interfere with pharmaceutical or medical intervention, there is absolutely no "down-side" to implementation of magnetic therapy. So, whether the benefit of magnetic therapy is real (which we believe it is) or related to a placebo effect, the results are the same...relief and a more enjoyable lifestyle.

Worst-case scenario of using a magnetic bracelet is that you'll be wearing a pretty good-looking piece of jewelry around your wrist. Give it a thought while you take a look at the pretty good-looking bracelets at www.links-magnetic-bracelets.com.