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The Research on Magnets for Feet

By Wendy Bumgardner, About.com

Updated: August 21, 2006

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board

A study by the New York College of Podiatric Medicine found that magnetic insoles gave no more relief from heel pain than a non-magnetic insole. The finding was published in the January, 1997 issue of the Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association. It is telling that 60% of those studied had heel pain relief whether they had the magnetic or non-magnetic insole - showing the power of the "placebo effect" on heel pain.

No Relief for Plantar Fasciitis by Magnetic Insoles

A 2002-03 study in Rochester, Minnesota of 101 plantar fasciitis sufferers showed no difference in pain between those using a magnetic insole and those using a placebo non-magnetic insole. Magnetic Insoles Offer No Relief

Polls Find No Significant Results with Magnets

Consumer Reports also polled its readers on the effect of magnetic therapy on foot pain and low back pain. While 40% said it worked for them, that again is the number that might respond to a placebo.

A poll taken by the About Guide to Chronic Pain/Back and Neck Injury found that 80% of those using them had no pain relief.

FTC Takes Action Against Magnet Claims

The Federal Trade Commission has taken action against spurious claims. Magnetic Therapeutic Technologies, Inc. agreed to stop representing their magnet products, including magnetic knee supports and magnetic sleep pads, as treating and alleviating a variety of medical problems, including cancer, high blood pressure, HIV, diabetic neuropathy, and Multiple Sclerosis. Napa and Sonoma counties of California have received a judgment against Lipenwald, Inc., and National Magnet Therapy, LLC, for marketing "New Therapeutic Magnets" for pain relief.

Next Page>> What Should You Do to Relieve Foot Pain?
How Do The Magnets Work? | Research Results | History of Medical Magnets

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