What need to be known about the therapy with static magnetic fields

During the last three decades the interest toward clinical application of magnetic and electromagnetic stimulation increased worldwide. Numerous publications have discussed the possibility of exogenous magnetic fields to initiate beneficial effects on various biological processes, which are of critical importance for healing of different injuries and pathologies. Today, magnetic and electromagnetic fields are increasingly utilized for the treatment of numerous musculoskeletal injuries and pathologies. For example, selected magnetic fields were reported to be beneficial in the treatment of musculoskeletal injuries and post-surgical, post traumatic and chronic wounds, reduction of edema, in the acceleration of pain and stress relief, and thus contribute to healing processes. The application of this modality could be facilitated by establishing the exact dosimetry of application and by searching for biophysical mechanisms of action, as well. It should be remembered that “not all magnets are equal”, therefore the specific medical problem requires a proper diagnostics, a selection of the magnetic field to be applied and a design of the appropriate protocol for treatment. The paper advised that every study and report should carefully explain both the medical problem and the parameters of the applied magnetic field and cautions against generalized statements like “Magnetic field does/does not cause biological response”.