Wearing a magnetic bracelet won't help you fight arthritis pain, according to a new study. Magnetic bracelets are a form of magnetic therapy, a type of alternative medicine based on the theory that magnetic fields can promote healing when administered directly to the body.
For the study, researchers recruited 45 people (ages 50 or over) who suffered from osteoarthritis. For 16 weeks, each participant wore one of four devices in a random order: two wrist straps with differing levels of magnetism, a demagnetized wrist strap, and a copper bracelet. Study results showed no significant difference between the devices in terms of their ability to reduce pain, ease stiffness, and improve physical function.
While magnetic therapy may not help relieve osteoarthritis pain, past research suggests that other alternative approaches (such as acupuncture, yoga, and glucosamine supplements) may help manage the condition.
Magnetic bracelets and jewelry seldom but magnetic force in the right place with sufficient strength to be magnetic therapy. Magnets should be used for their beneficial effect with the other recommendations.
Sadly many studies designed to double blind the study so compromise the therapeutic component that they show no benefit. I have been working on a study with therapists to see if a time and subjective outcome for trigger points can be statistically demonstrated.