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 Magnetic Field Therapy for Horses ©
by Mary Ann Simonds, B.S., M.A.
All life forms on earth have evolved with the earth's magnetic fields. For
thousands of years, people of various cultures have been aware of and used
magnets for healing. Although, well documented in physics and commercial
uses, magnets today are being rediscovered for use in healing various life
forms.
Although direct application of magnets can have beneficial results,
inexperienced people should not apply magnets if they are unfamiliar with
the strength and nature of the magnets. Magnets can "burn" the skin if
left on too long or are too strong. Magnets can also change the polarity
of the body and cause discomfort if too strong or left in a static
position too long. Low level magnetic fields of 5 to 1000 gauss are
usually safest and seem to have the best healing affects on most life
forms. The safest products allow the magnets to create a "field" and move
with the body.
Using any magnetic field on or near an animal or person can affect the
body. Magnetic research indicates that magnets can affect:
Blood flow by increasing the oxygen carrying potential. Changes in migration of calcium ions, thus assisting in moving calcium
ions to broken bones or removing ions from painful arthritic joints. The pH balance of various body fluids which are often out of balance when
ill. Hormone production from the endocrine glands which can be increased or
decreased by magnetic stimulation. Enzyme activity and other bio-chemical processes.
Documented examples of specific effects created when a magnetic field is
applied to the body are:
Electricity is generated in blood vessels. Ionized particles increase in the blood. Autonomic nerves are excited. Circulation is improved.
Magnetic fields can also be used to balance the negative effects of
low-level electromagnetic fields caused from such things as power lines
and micro-waves, as well as noxious earth energies. Imbalanced earth
energies can weaken the immune system and cause general weakness in people
and animals.
Types of Magnetic Fields
Basically, there are two common types of magnetic field products on the
market today; 1) a magnetic field pulse system which generates an
electromagnetic field using electricity and coils and 2) magnetic products
which use various types of magnets to generate a magnetic field. There are
several manufacturers of pulsed electromagnetic field systems today. These
systems may operate off batteries or direct electricity using direct or
alternating currents. Magnetic products may use ceramic magnets or various
forms of flexible magnets. Their strength will vary from roughly 300-400
gauss to about 1000 gauss. Most magnets have a South (+) positive pole and
a North or negative (-) pole. Positive poles usually stimulate and
negative poles usually sedate when used directly on an acu-point on the
body. When alternating poles are used, a magnetic field of "attraction" is
created. If single poles are used, a magnetic field of "repelling" is
created. Bi-pole magnets are made with alternating strips of positive and
negative poles in various patterns from crisscrossing to concentric
circles. In general, alternating fields are the safest and most commonly
used, although all forms of magnetic field therapy has its specific
application.
In general, magnetic therapy is a safe non-invasive modality that works
subtly with the body's energy to bring about balance. Magnetic therapy can
be used as preventative therapy to help keep the body in balance. However,
the advice of your veterinarian or health care professional should be
sought before using magnetic therapies in the treatment of any serious
disorder.
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