Magnetotherapy is a natural treatment alternative that uses magnets and their magnetic fields to increase the movement of some cells and body substances, such as water, in order to obtain effects such as decreased pain, increased cell regeneration or reduced inflammation, for example example.
To do this technique, the magnets can be inserted in bands of fabric, bracelets, shoes and other objects, in order to be kept close to the place to be treated, or the magnetic field can be produced by a small device that is placed close to the skin, at the place to be treated.
The intensity of the magnetic field, as well as the size of the magnets, must be adapted to the type of problem to be treated and, therefore, magnetotherapy must always be performed by a qualified therapist in order to adapt it correctly to the needs of each person.
Main benefits
Due to the effects of magnetic fields on the human body, some studies indicate benefits such as:
- Increased blood circulation, since the magnetic field is able to decrease the contraction of blood vessels; Rapid pain relief, as it stimulates the production of endorphins, which are natural analgesic substances; Decreased inflammation due to increased circulation and reduced blood pH; Increased regeneration of cells, tissues and bones, because it improves the functioning of cells Preventing premature aging and the appearance of diseases, as it eliminates toxins that damage cells and harm health.
To obtain this kind of benefits, magnetotherapy must be repeated for more than one session, and the treatment time must be indicated by the therapist according to the problem to be treated and the intensity of the magnetic field.
When used
This technique can be used whenever it is necessary and possible to speed up the recovery process. Thus, it is sometimes used in physical therapy to help treat cases of fractures, osteoporosis, nerve damage, rheumatoid arthritis, tendonitis, epicondylitis or osteoarthritis, for example.
In addition, due to its cell regeneration effect, magnetotherapy can also be indicated by nurses or doctors in the process of healing difficult wounds, such as bedsores or diabetic feet.
Who should not use
Although it has several benefits, magnetotherapy cannot be used in all cases, especially due to all the changes it causes in the body. Thus, it is contraindicated in cases of:
- Cancer in any part of the body; Hyperthyroidism or exaggerated functioning of the adrenal glands; Myasthenia gravis; Active hemorrhages; Fungal or viral infections.
In addition, this technique should be used with caution in patients with frequent seizures, severe arteriosclerosis, low blood pressure, undergoing treatment with anticoagulants or with severe psychiatric disorders.
Pacemaker patients, on the other hand, should only use magnetotherapy after approval by the cardiologist, since the magnetic field can alter the adjustment of the electrical rhythm of some pacemaker devices.
