Manufacturers of magnetic bracelets claim that they can reduce pain. Osteoarthritis affects around 760,000 people in the United Kingdom, producing over 3 million general practice consultations in 2000. ( www.sciencedaily.com) .With a study they found a significant reduction in pain scores between the standard and dummy magnet groups. The results for the weak magnet group were similar to those of the dummy magnets, and this suggests that the magnetic strength of the bracelet is important.
The authors emphasize that the benefits are in addition to existing treatments, which should not be suddenly stopped without discussion with their doctor. Also they note that high strength magnets (170mTesla or more) seem to be needed. The cost of bracelets (around £30-£50 or $58-$96), also compares well with that of painkillers, such as paracetamol and anti-inflammatory drugs, and larger investigations should now test the safety of magnets relative to the well-known risks of these drugs, they add.
