Pain Control with Spot Magnets

The first observations of magnetism were made in the 6th Century BC by the Greek philosopher Thales. In the 1600s Dr William Gilbert published his experiments with magnetism entitled ‘De Magnete’. However it has taken until the 20th century for us to realise that magnets have therapeutic value.

Modern Technological Advances

As the technology of magnets improved they became smaller and more powerful. Clumsy iron bar and horseshoe magnets have been replaced by ‘rare earth’ compounds such as Neomydium that are small, non toxic and safe to wear against the skin. These tiny ‘spot magnets’ can be purchased ready mounted on skin coloured plasters for ease of use.

Recognised by the Medical Profession

It has now been recognised that magnets are very useful in relieving pain. As a first aid remedy they are ideal, being easy to use and yet having no side effects. A whole industry has grown around this therapy.

Spot magnets have been incorporated into magnetic mattress covers, shoe insoles, joint wraps, hair brushes and pillow cases. Many people have also found enormous benefit in wearing magnetic jewellery; bangles and necklaces with inbuilt spot magnets.

These magnets can have a profound effect on the wearer and in some cases the improvements experienced have been almost miraculous.

How Do Magnets Work?

It is believed that magnets work by interacting with the blood flow; the haemoglobin molecule in the red blood cells contains iron which is, of course, magnetic. It is possible that this stimulates improved blood circulation around the pain-area.

Magnets also work with the flow of energy around the body – what is referred to as Qi in the Chinese Traditional Medicine system. The spot magnets can be placed directly upon acu-points enabling a treatment to be continued for a number of days. This can relieve back pain, emotional problems, headaches and many other symptoms.

Another interesting theory is that magnets interrupt the pain signals travelling along nerves before they can reach the pain receptors in the brain.

Purchasing & Using Spot Magnets

Spot magnets can be purchased from chemists or from specialist internet and mail order companies. They vary greatly in price and in strength. Strength of magnets is rated in gauss - 800g will often do for normal aches and pains and magnets rated up to 3000g can be used for more stubborn pains.

Some magnets are flat topped and others have a pointed face designed to sit over an acu- point. These however can cause irritation in some users and are best avoided.

The spot magnet should be worn for several days and then removed to let the skin breathe. Once a magnet has been used, however, it should not be discarded. Neomydium magnets do not lose their magnetism and so can be used over and over.

Re-using Spot Magnets

Simply remove the spot magnet from its old plaster and disinfect it with a skin friendly anti-bacterial product. It can then be placed on a new plaster, or on a piece of zinc oxide tape. Place it so that it has the same orientation as on the original plaster. This means that the original polarity direction is maintained.

Allergies & Contraindications

A word of caution to those who suffer from skin irritation. It is always a good idea to do a check before placing anything in contact with the skin for prolonged periods. Wear a magnet for an hour and then check for irritation. If there is any reddening or itchiness then magnet therapy is not for you, or the plaster is not suitable.

Magnets are not recommended for those who wear a pacemaker or who are pregnant.

Choice of Tape or Plasters

Hypoallergenic tape or plasters should be chosen by those people who suffer from skin sensitivity or allergies.

References:

Healing with Magnets, Gary Null, Ph.D., Robinson Publishers, London. ISBN: 1-85487-558-2

Sheet of spot magnets seen from underneath

Re-using spot magnets on zinc oxide tape

Skin coloured plasters

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