By Bruce Spiegler

It's amazing what you can find when you start your search a little outside the bulls eye. While clicking through Magnetic Resonance Imaging research online, my colleagues and I found some intriguing scientific studies completely by accident!

What did we find? Well, let's just say if you've got a stuffy nose you should try magnets before sniffling through that bottle of nasal spray!

What Causes Sinusitis?

Did you know that every year, more than 35 million Americans suffer from sinusitis? It's one of the leading chronic diseases in the United States [1]. And it's no wonder, as bacteria, viruses, cigarette smoke, and allergens like pollen, mold, dust mite feces and pet dander are all common causes of this condition [2]. Unless you live in a bubble, there's really no escaping these tiny antagonists.

The sinuses are actually four pairs of hollow spaces in the bones of the face. Connected to the nose, air is allowed to flow in and out of these spaces. To help warm and filter the air, each sinus is lined with a mucous-producing membrane, called the mucosa [3].

Acute sinusitis occurs when the mucosa is irritated and inflamed. The small openings from the nose to the sinus cavities become congested (or even completely blocked), causing the facial pain and pressure most of us have experienced at some point in time. Mucus production is often increased as well, adding to the pressure, and causing that annoying runny nose symptom [3].

Many people turn to preventive methods like HEPA air filters, or frequent cleaning of carpets and bed sheets to reduce household allergens [4]. Decongestants, saline nasal sprays, and vaporizers are commonly used to treat the symptoms–but as you and I know, they take time to work.

This is where those studies I mentioned come in. There's an interesting, but little known fact about the sinuses: they are magnetically-sensitive.

MRIs and Homing Pigeons

Based on our own research and experiences with clients and health practitioners over the years, we've observed that sinus congestion is dramatically improved or completely relieved with the application of magnetic therapy. In fact, taking about 20-30 minutes on average, it's one of the conditions that biomagnetics alleviates quickest.

Until recently, though, we didn't have much research to back these findings (other than our own records). But, while sifting through online abstracts from MRI research, I happened to stumble upon this:

Dating back to 1983, a study was conducted to assess the influence of magnetic fields on the physiology and behavior of biological organisms, and to search for possible magnetic sources within the organisms themselves.

It was found that a wide range of life forms could detect and orient to magnetic fields. Like having a built-in compass. Results showed magnetic orientation by bacteria was due to the presence of particles of magnetite (ferric/ferrous oxide) within the organisms.

The same magnetic material was also found in bees, homing pigeons, dolphins and other organisms–including humans. More specifically, the researchers found that "the bones of the sphenoid/ethmoid sinus complex of humans are magnetic and contain deposits of ferric iron". (The sphenoid/ethmoid sinuses are located between the eyes and progress inward towards the back of the head [3].)

Refining our search, we were able to uncover other MRI studies confirming this finding.

Here's a brief timeline of what was found:

1986 – "Magnetic Resonance Imaging [using a 1.5 Tesla (15,000 Gauss) magnet and a spin echo technique] has revealed a remarkably intense signal from abnormal tissue in the human paranasal sinuses. Inflammatory disease in the maxillary, sphenoid, ethmoid, and frontal sinuses has been detected and demonstrated with greater clarity than any other available technique."

1990 – A study conducted at the UCLA School of Medicine tested conditions affected by MRI field strength. Results illustrated that "magnetic susceptibility artifacts are prevalent on the boundary of air-containing paranasal sinuses".

1995 – Research at Uppsala University in Sweden discovered that "large, local magnetic field variations up to 3 parts per million were found in the human brain near interfaces between air or bone and brain tissues".

2002 – An Ohio State University study compared differences in magnetic field susceptibility at tissue interfaces in the human head. "Considerable magnetic field inhomogeneities were observed in the inferior frontal lobes and inferior temporal lobes, particularly near the sphenoid sinus and the temporal bones."

These four independent studies all relate to the notion that human sinuses are magnetically sensitive. When compared to other regions of the head, more intense magnetic field readings are seen, and conditions of inflammation are more easily observed.

How does this lead to sinus relief?

Magnetic therapy is proven to be effective in reducing inflammation, a primary symptom of sinusitis. By reducing inflammation of the mucosa, mucous blockages can be drained and the sinus cavities reopened. This, allows you to breathe freely again, while eliminating the facial pain caused by pressure build-up.

When applied properly, magnetic therapy products can relieve sinus congestion in as little as 15 minutes. That's faster than any decongestant or vaporizer, lasts longer than most nasal sprays, and is completely free of any side effects (like dryness or burning). Not to mention, you won't need to worry about buying refills or possible addiction to certain nasal decongestants.

What Therion products are best for sinusitis?

The Platinum Magnetic Eye Mask is designed specifically to help relieve sinus congestion and facial pain. Inside are 28 neodymium magnets covering areas around the eyes, forehead and upper cheeks. (The magnetic field has an effective penetration depth up to 3.5 inches.) You can expect sinus and headache relief often within 20-30 minutes of wearing the mask.

For natural sinus relief, and more restful sleep, Therion's magnetic contour pillow is the perfect choice. Its viscoelastic memory foam is soft and comfortable, and also supports the cervical spine to help reduce neck stiffness. You'll actually feel it adjusting and conforming to the shape of your head and neck. In each raised contour, the pillow uses neodymium magnets to target the sinuses and neck discomfort with strong magnetic therapy. (See the article Having Trouble Sleeping.)

So before you open that box of 'non-drowsy' decongestants or reach for the nasal spray on your nightstand, give magnetic therapy a try. If it's fast-acting, has no side effects, and never needs a refill, what do you have to lose?

SOURCES:

1 – Sinus News: Sinus Pressure

2 – Sinus News: Sinus Facts Overview

3 – The Sinus Treatment Center

4 – The Allergy Relief Center

1983 — PubMed: Magnetic bones in human sinuses.

1986 — PubMed: High-field magnetic resonance imaging of paranasal sinus inflammatory disease.

1990 — PubMed: Effect of field strength on susceptibility artifacts in magnetic resonance imaging.

1995 — PubMed: Measurements of magnetic field variations in the human brain using a 3D-FT multiple gradient echo technique.

2002 — PubMed: Three-dimensional numerical simulations of susceptibility-induced magnetic field inhomogeneities in the human head.

Yesterday, CBS News medical reporter Dr. Holly Phillips explored the use of magnetic therapy for anti-aging facial treatments. She interviewed Mica Hughes, a leading aesthetician in Manhattan. Hughes offers her spa clients a new magnetic facial treatment. Using face creams and neodymium magnets, it works to reduce wrinkles and age lines around the eyes and forehead.

The treatment is both safe and non-invasive - meaning no needles or injections. One of her clients, Emily, described it as very relaxing. After just 3 treatments, her results were easily noticeable in before-and-after photos (shown by CBS).

Magnets are not limited to wrinkles or spa treatments though. They're becoming a hot topic when it comes to relaxation and rejuvenation. For example, wearing a magnetic eye mask can help relieve eye puffiness and maintain results after a spa facial treatment. Sleeping on a magnetic pillow can soothe headaches and sinus congestion. And magnetic shoulder wraps help relax tense muscles.

What makes medical magnets so effective is their ability to improve blood circulation. Studies from both the U.S. and Japan have proven strong magnets are able to relax capillary walls, increasing blood flow. This supplies more nutrients for healthier cells, and more oxygen to muscles - relieving stress and tension.

The greatest advantages offered by magnetic therapy are that it's safe and can be enjoyed at home. And while you might have to buy another jar of wrinkle cream after a few weeks, magnets are re-useable.

If you're looking for a new way to help restore more youthful skin, or just to relax, consider wearing a Therion magnetic eye mask to sleep each night. With soft comfort and 28 neodymium magnets around the forehead, eyes and cheeks, it's one of the easiest ways to try magnetic therapy for yourself.

Original news story: http://wcbstv.com/topstories/magnet.therapy.aging.2.1672549.html

by Bruce Spiegler, President/CEO of Therion Inc., Registered Magnetic Therapist, Holistic Health Practitioner

The car accident had left me with terrible back pain. I had been to three different physicians. The only option offered to me was prescription medication.

For three years I lived with chronic pain - 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

The prescription drugs helped relieve some of the discomfort, but I had to stop taking them when I began getting sick to my stomach - which was often worse than the pain itself. Time and again I thought, "this can't be the only choice. There must be another alternative."

It wasn't until 3 years later that I heard about magnetic therapy from a friend, and decided to try it. With nothing to lose, I used a magnetic pad on my back during the day and slept on a magnetic mattress pad every night. Much to my surprise, after two weeks my back felt much better. After a few months, the pain was completely gone!

My wife, who had a back problem caused by herniated disks, woke up every morning with pain and stiffness. Not long after sleeping on the magnetic pad, the stiffness began to subside, and she was soon waking up pain-free as well.

Although skeptical at first, I was amazed at the effectiveness of magnetic therapy, and began to intensely investigate the field of biomagnetics. Since my initial experience, I have had the pleasure of helping many people achieve similar results, enhancing the quality of life of those suffering from chronic conditions and injuries.

Now I'd like to take the opportunity to help those of you who may be suffering from chronic back pain, and to tell you how to better prevent it.

Back pain is the #1 form of pain experienced by people in the U.S. It accounts for 20% of all injuries and illnesses in the workplace, and is responsible for as much as $50 billion in diagnosis and treatment each year [1]. The National Institutes of Health estimate that 4 out of 5 Americans will experience back pain at some point in their lives. Not a pretty picture from any standpoint.

The majority of back pain occurs in the lumbar region of the spine [2]. Here, most of your body's weight is placed on the lowest 5 of the 24 vertebrae (bones) that make up the spine. Considering all the other muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints, disks, and major nerves that are also a part of or connected to the spine, it's no surprise that there are so many ways to injure your back as you twist and bend them [3].

Pain is considered chronic if it's recurring, lasts more than three months, and can seemingly be stimulated by any small movement (for whatever reason) [4]. In the 21st century, we're finally realizing that drugs and surgery are not always the answer for treating chronic pain or other musculoskeletal conditions & injuries.

The future lies in an integrative approach to promoting the body's own healing ability by using noninvasive, safer treatments. Acupuncture, massage therapy, chiropractic and osteopathic care, and certain physical therapy exercises are just a few options to help with back pain.

Following an individualistic approach to treatment is key. A particular therapy that may work for one person may not work as well for another. Often it's necessary to try a combination of treatment methods to begin feeling significant improvements.

For true recovery of back injuries and disease, pain and inflammation need to be reduced, proper function and strength restored, and further injury prevented [4]. With this in mind, let's discuss...

How magnetic therapy can help

One of the primary benefits of magnetic therapy is the reduction of inflammation. Localized inflammation following an injury is a natural protective reaction. It creates an imbalance in sodium and potassium ion (charged particle) concentrations at a cellular level. As a result, fluid accumulates in the cells, causing the injured tissue to become inflamed. (Think of it as retaining water after eating salty food.)

If there's no intervention, the body will eventually heal itself and the inflammation will subside. However, this process can be very slow and painful. Because of this, treatments that can safely speed the overall process are needed, particularly in the case of chronic conditions, like arthritis.

Applying a bio-north magnetic field safely rebalances electro-chemical ion concentrations. Excess fluids and toxins are flushed from the cells and removed through the lymphatic system. As a result, healing time is often reduced by as much as 50%.

Since major nerve bundles run through the spine, it's obvious why back pain is so common. Pain is caused by an electro-chemical signal sent to the brain. The normal electric potential of a neuron (nerve cell) is around -70mV when in a resting state. When injured, a neuron's charge becomes positive due to a shift in chemical ion balances. This triggers a pain signal to be sent to the brain.

Applying a bio-north (negative polarity) magnetic field lowers a neuron's electric potential, bringing it closer to its normal, negative state. As a result, the pain signal diminishes faster, and in most cases, will eventually stop.

Another important goal when recovering from back injuries is restoring mobility. Magnetic therapy helps relax muscle tissue, thereby increasing flexibility and reducing the incidence of muscle spasms.

In 2000, researchers in Italy tested the effects of a magnetic seating system on several volunteers. Each person participated by either driving or remaining seated at a computer workstation for prolonged periods; both with and without the magnetic system.

"The results showed a decreased myoelectric (neuron) activity both at shoulder and lumbar level by using the magnet based sitting system for prolonged seated work tasks...The system appears to be an effective tool in preventing muscle contractures secondary to prolonged, constrained positions" [5].

Because it can be so difficult and painful to move, many people feel they need to rest for a few days after injuring their back. But did you know that bed rest should really be minimized or avoided? According to David Lehrman, M.D. (chief of orthopedic surgery at St. Francis Hospital and founder of the Lehrman Back Center in Miami, FL), "for every week of bed rest, it takes two weeks to rehabilitate." [3].

A 1995 study in Helsinki, Finland found that out of 186 subjects, those who went about their daily activities as tolerated had greater flexibility and less pain than those who underwent backmobilizing exercises. The slowest recovery was seen in subjects that were prescribed two days of bed rest [6].

While an interesting fact, it's one that some of us may grumble about. Bear in mind we still have to sleep and give our bodies a chance to heal and recuperate. As I found out years ago, sleeping on the proper magnetic mattress pad will help speed the healing process and can significantly reduce chronic pain over time.

Back in 1990, a 12-month clinical test on the effects of magnetic mattress pads was conducted in Tokyo, Japan. The study, led by Dr. Kazuo Shimodaira, involved 431 subjects. 375 of them received full-sized magnetic pads and the remaining subjects received sham mattress pads for control. (Each magnetic pad contained 124 permanent ferrite magnets with field strengths of 750-950 Gauss.)

Here are the results of the yearlong test:

On average, 53.3% of the subjects realized the effect of the magnetic mattress pad within 3 days, and over 70% within 5 days. What's more is that thorough testing for side effects was conducted and none were found [7].

(Note: The magnetic mattress pads used in this study did not produce very strong magnetic fields. As stronger magnetic fields are more effective, a higher energy pad would improve results even further.)

Supporting these findings, a 1997 Johns Hopkins pain center treatment study compared magnetic therapy for chronic pain with a placebo therapy. It concluded that people using the magnetic therapy showed a dramatic improvement, whereas the placebo group improved only minimally. Again, there were no side effects detected [8].

Since the vast majority of adults are not in "ideal" physical condition, the risk of back injury for them is greatly increased.

If you're out of shape and are planning an activity that requires lifting, bending or twisting, it's a good idea to take steps that can help prevent injury in the first place. Magnetic therapy is an excellent way of accomplishing this.

There are three primary actions that take place when using magnetic therapy for prevention. The first two are its ability to increase circulation and to relax muscles. The effects are similar to warming up and stretching before a strenuous workout. It's really the third action that sets magnetic therapy apart from anything else though. Magnetic therapy can effectively control energy flow along the body's acupuncture meridians (energy channels).

Placing a magnetic pad or support over an area channels the body's energy directly to that location. Increased energy availability, combined with improved circulation, significantly extends the amount of time that one can exert themselves before muscle fatigue sets in. In turn, this reduces the likelihood of muscle strain.

The combination of improving blood flow, relieving muscle tension, and reducing pain makes magnetic therapy ideal for treating back conditions and preventing further injury. While effective on its own, magnetic therapy is also an excellent adjunct to other treatments. Whether chiropractic, acupuncture, therapeutic massage, or another method, it can help improve and prolong a treatment's positive results.

The next time you're out and about, make use of a high-energy magnetic support or back pad. It's a simple and effective way to continue through the day with less pain and a greater range of motion. Trust me. Your back will thank you!

TIPS & GUIDELINES FOR A HEALTHIER BACK

The National Institutes of Health provides guidelines for maintaining a healthier back. Following these and a few other tips will greatly increase your chances of preventing further injury while strengthening your back muscles.

When Standing:

• Keep your weight balanced on your feet. Your back supports weight most easily when curvature is reduced.
• Don't slouch when standing or sitting. (Keep your hands lightly clasped behind your lower back. This improves posture for your neck, shoulders and upper back, and reduces muscle tension.)
• Wear comfortable, low-heeled shoes.

When sitting:

• Make sure your work surface is at a comfortable height for you.
• Sit in a chair with good lumbar support and proper position/height for the task. (Use a pillow, rolled towel, or lumbar cushion if needed.)
• Switch sitting positions often and periodically take a short walk or light stretch to relieve tension and restore blood circulation.
• If you must sit for a long period of time, rest your feet on a low stool or a stack of books.

When lifting:

• Don't try to lift objects too heavy for you!
• Pull in your stomach muscles, keep your head down and in line with your straight back, and lift with your legs.
• Keep the object close to your body.
• Do not twist when lifting.
• Do not carry an object in one hand if it causes you to lean to one side. (Use both hands, or carry an additional item to balance the load.)

Exercise:

• Always warm-up and stretch before exercise or other strenuous activity.
• Following a prolonged period of inactivity, begin a program of regular lowimpact exercises. (Ask a physician or orthopedist for recommended exercises appropriate for your age and requirements.)
• Speed walking, swimming, or stationary bike riding for 30 minutes a day can increase muscle strength and flexibility.
• Yoga or Tai Chi can help stretch and strengthen muscles, and improve posture.

Everyday habits:

• Maintain proper nutrition and diet to reduce and prevent excessive weight (especially around the waist area).
• If you smoke, quit. Smoking reduces blood flow to the lower spine and causes spinal disks to degenerate.

SOURCES:

1. Centers for Disease Control - National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, June 19, 1999.
2. Pain Central: What Causes Back Pain?
3. Pain Foundation: Back Pain
4. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke: Low Back Pain Fact Sheet
5. PubMed: Efficacy of a chair with magnets in the prevention of musculoskeletal disorders caused by prolonged sitting.
6. PubMed: The treatment of acute low back pain - bed rest, exercises, or ordinary activity?
7. Summary of a 12month double-blind, clinical test of magnetic mattress pads. Kazuo Shimodaira, M.D. Tokyo Communications and Kouseikai Suzuki Hospitals, Tokyo, Japan. 1990.
8. "Use of magnetic therapy for chronic pain" by Joseph Kandel, M.D. and David B. Sudderth, M.D. The Arthritis Solution.

Therion Inc.
Natural pain relief you can trust.