MAGNETIC THERAPY. MAGNETIC FIELD GENERATION DEVICES

Magnetic therapy devices contain solenoids which emit magnetic pulses, and which can be regulated to modify the frequency and intensity of energy which we wish to apply to the body.

Although they differ in technology, these solenoids are not so very different to the electromagnets that we made in physics classes. By wrapping insulated copper wire around an iron nucleus and connecting it to an electric current, a magnetic field which allowed us to attract metal objects was created.

Modern magnetic therapy devices can be used at home as a portable unit and in clinics.

Thanks to huge improvements in microprocessors, devices are light as well as user friendly, making them easy to use in the patient’s home; it is as easy as selecting a programme from the menu, and placing the band containing two to three solenoids that generate a magnetic field on the area of the body to be treated.

Clinical pulsed magnetic therapy devices are the largest; the solenoids are contained in a ring shaped applicator. The band diameter is regulated depending on which area of the body we wish to treat. These devices can produce a sweeping pulse, or the setting can be modified for different parts of the body.

Lower intensity solenoids are used for local application to the arms or legs, and are far more adaptable to a range of uses. They are not usually used for treatment when lying down on a treatment bed.