Two of the main benefits of using magnets for arthritis treatment are that magnets may relieve pain endured by many arthritis sufferers while presenting an alternative to pharmaceutical medications. For some people, treating arthritis with magnets is a way of avoiding negative side effects sometimes experienced with other treatments. Studies about the use of magnets for arthritis have revealed a usefulness in using magnets to diagnose arthritic symptoms in animals.
Among the various causes of arthritis are genetics, age, injury and inflammation caused by crystallized uric acid settling in the joints. There are also multiple types of arthritis, most of which fall into three basic categories: rheumatoid arthritis, gout and osteoarthritis. Regardless of the cause or type, however, most arthritis sufferers experience painful symptoms leading those afflicted to search for therapies that will assist with managing arthritis pain. Using magnets for arthritis is one such therapy that researchers continue to study to determine its effectiveness.
Scientific and anecdotal evidence suggests that wearing magnets or sleeping on a magnetic mattress pad may reduce the severity of pain experienced by some people. The effects of this treatment seem to work best when strong magnets are placed directly at pain sites. While further research is needed to determine how effective magnets are at relieving pain, many who use magnets for arthritis report a significant decrease in discomfort and pain.
Many prefer using magnets for arthritis as an alternative to prescription medications. In some instances, this is due to side effects associated with certain medications. Other people simply prefer the benefit of applying a magnet to areas where pain persists instead of ingesting a chemical remedy. While arthritis medications are often considered safe and effective, many people simply prefer using alternative health options.
Physical side effects associated with using magnets for arthritis are rare, but they do exist. In particular, those who wear electronic devices, such as a pacemaker, should probably not use magnets for arthritis. This is largely due to the possibility that magnets may interfere with a device’s operation.
The benefits of using magnets for arthritis may also extend to veterinary health. As do humans, many animals develop arthritis as they grow older. Veterinarians have found success in using magnets to locate the presence of inflamed joints in animals and, thus, may be able to diagnose and treat symptoms more effectively.