Here is a new treatment for depression:

http://www.ivillage.com/magnet-thera...ression/155673

Pretty interesting!

Our single magnets are not strong enough I suspect however.
So don't try this yourself, yet.

Got my Magnets
 

Just received my magnets I ordered from eBay the other, but they did not have north or south marked on them. Upon reading the instructions it said that you can determine the poles with a compass. The North compass needle will point to the South pole of the magnet.

But I did not have a compass, so I have spent the last few days looking for one. I did find one a a cheap shop, not sold as a compass but a lock the compass was extra.

Now I know what side to place on my skin so I am hoping they will work.

They also tell you to use Micropore tape as it is the only one that can be worn for days without irritating the skin. They also say to sandwich the magnet between two layers of the tape and trim off the excess leaving a 1/8 inch margin around the magnet.

I received the Micropore tape with the magnets I ordered from eBay.

Hope this is of help :circlelove:

Yes, sounds like what I do.

The poles can also be determined by trial and error. The N pole is typically stimulating, and the nerves will react within minutes to it. So putting the N towards the body may give MORE symptoms.

With all the bending, gardening and cutting (pruning) I've been doing lately, I've been a mess too. I've had 3 magnets on some days! ;) When storms approach, I sort of crash physically lately!

Magnets for depression
 

Mrs. D, very interesting link you put up.

I have to say it makes a lot of sense. Ect has been in use a long time. When I was in a very deep episode of depression, it was the only thing that broke my "cycle" - I eventually was able to drop all but one of my depression meds. I would not hesitate to use that treatment again, if necessary. It has gotten too much of a bad rap.

How nice it would be to be able to use a drug free treatment for depression - I hope they follow up on this.

Thanks

Now available at Amazon:

http://www.amazon.com/Neodymium-Magn...5024049&sr=8-2

These are the ones I current use, the coating is handy compared to the bare nickel types.

Hello,
I have a collection of the thin banana shape magnets out of hard drives. For the past two days I have put one on my right butt cheek for a period of 3hrs using duck tape and tonite very little pain in my lower back. how does one tell the polarity on these type of magnets, they are powerful.

This was a VERY helpful thread to read! I didn't look at all of the links--only one so far... but it was helpful. I don't have the money even for the cheap magnets (plus shipping) right now, but have bookmarked this thread plus the amazon link for the red/green magnets.

I have a silly question.. are the red/green magnets colored that way to signal that one is N and one is S... or are they just two colors for no reason?

The Red is the South pole and the Green is the North. Red is mostly used to reduce pain. The green may have its uses, but I find it increases sensation rather than reducing it.

Hello,
No pain in the right lower back tonight, just have to work on the magnet placement to calm the neuroma in the right foot. mrsD you need a security guard as we don't want some witch doctor kidnapping ya.

In general, if you have magnets that are not marked....
When you apply an unmarked magnet, if the pain increases, over a short time, 15min or 1/2 hr for me, then that is the North.

The South, reduces pain very quickly. I don't think "damage" happens from the North, it is just not useful for pain relief.

Magnets are very useful. I've been using them for over 10 yrs.
The new very powerful ones don't need to be on your body all day long, I have found. They correct signals, which may stay corrected all by themselves. It may be that pain is a + phenomenon, and the - pole prevents the nerve transmission signal.

As with other strong pain relief, don't over do when you feel better. Some people get over confident and over do and cause further damage. (mostly arthritics etc).

I think magnets work like Lidocaine. My experience with Lidoderm for my previously awful meralgia paresthetica, was similar. Used for 14 days in a row, and the nerve stopped acting up. Now I only get twinges, especially if I over extend that leg, to remind me of those awful days. So I think some pain can be nerves that don't turn off properly. Lidocaine is a sodium channel blocker, and sodium/potassium are the electrolytes that send nerve impulses in the nerve cell. They cross membranes and this is called generating an "action potential".

But, I am pleased for you, Stagger, that you have some relief.
Magnets can be a simple, and even elegant solution to nagging pain situations. Some pain is a signal for your attention, so don't mask "new" pains all the time, since they may need diagnosis, and don't overdo physical things when the pain is less. Moderation is the key!

Hello,
Didn't use magnet on back today just in the neuroma area top of right foot (1 hour), no lower back pain tonight, the right foot is just plain numb no burning. The discomfort is the prostate area (been sitting a lot today). Only used 10mg of Methadone today and this is day 18 of taking D-Ribose 15,300mg this afternoon.

I just got the ones from the Amazon link mrsD posted. For some reason that I can't explain, I have an enormous collection of standard-sized bandaids, and found that these are an easy way to apply that size of magnet.

Haven't had any luck with pain reduction yet, but I'll keep trying.

Yes, band-aids will work...you have to put them in an X...so the magnet cannot slip out. The stickum on bandaids is not as strong as surgical tape tho, so wearing them doing "work" or lots of movement, or perspiration, they might fall off...since these coated ones are heavy.

I haven't needed to stick mine on, since I only do short treatments with those newer coated ones. I find 20 min to a 1/2 hr enough for those big ones!

Let me know how they work.;)

This is a very interesting thread! Now I am wondering if it's possible to use a magnet to help stimulate a nerve that has been damaged by trauma?

The opposite pole often is stimulating. Many magnets are not marked so you have to experiment yourself.

Test on an intact nerve. I do it on the back of my knee, where the stimulating pole will cause a buzzing sensation. The calming pole will not.

I have a book that vacillates back and forth on this subject...which pole to use. So I found that confusing. The bottom line is whichever works is the one to do.

You have to have a really strong one too. At least an inch across and neodymium type.

I find these convenient and efficient. They were not available back when I started using magnets:

http://www.amazon.com/Neodymium-Magn...2569441&sr=8-1

Also available on Ebay:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/4-Neodymium-...item1c1ee8b298

These do not shatter, or corrode. I find I only need mine on an area for about 20 minutes...not all day.

You cannot use if you have any implanted electronic medical devices, like spinal stimulators, or heart pacemakers, etc.

Thanks for your quick response! I'll be sure to check those magnets out; I'm willing to try anything to have my nerves back.

Question out of left field
 

MrsD, indeed this is a great thread.

I have arthritis in the joint where the thumb meets the wrist. I've been curious as to whether or not I could wear a small magnet on my hand to see if it would help. Since this isn't anywhere near my SCS, do you think I could try this? My battery unit is in my left hip, so even if my right hand hangs down, it would be on the opposite side of the battery.

Just wondered what you thought. I'm not sure how magnets work, do they affect the 'whole' body or just the area being treated.

Calling my Dr's office or the manufacturer isn't much help, as they don't really comprehend what healing magnets are all about.

Thanks!
Rae

Nope, sorry, I wouldn't try it.

But you could try topical magnesium lotion or cream. This can also work wonders for compressed nerves. You could also try Salonpas patches. These work very well for arthritis pain.
The original formula works well.. they can be cut to fit, and
have methyl salicylate in them. Often will work after one day!
Not expensive either.
This is the original one...
http://www.salonpas.us/products/salonpas
The newer ones are stronger and more expensive.

The magnets set up a "field" around you... I think they would affect any device inside your body.

aHA! Thanks for that! I kinda had a feeling, but wanted to hear it from someone who really knows magnets!

I actually have some Solonpas patches and yes they are very soothing.

I will look for the Magnesium topical - I'm pretty sure I'd do well with that.
I love what magnesium does! It's kinda hard to find the 'good' kind for supplemental use, as most stores only carry the 'oxide' form.
The only place I've found it here is a healthfood store.
Guess I better start shopping online!

Thanks for your wisdom, MrsD!

Rae
:hug:

Online for supplements is almost always less expensive than in local stores. Even now, recently Amazon has been very good for some of the less common supplements we use on PN forum!

Less shipping, and fast delivery. But you have to be very careful and watch the listing...as sometimes it can be an error.

I am getting my Doctor's Best supplements now from Amazon.

Separating Neodymium Magnets
 

Separating magnets in a roll may seem impossible If you do not know this trick.
If the magnets come with separators this is even more important because if they are that strong they may shatter or you may not be able to get them apart if they slam together.
Place the roll on the edge of a counter or table with a sharp edge and away from any metal parts. with the desired separation point on the edge hold the roll firmly and slide the magnet off below the edge then keep them widely separated.
Using more than one magnet at a time can be problematic because the can slam together with a force of 100 pounds and cut skin and garments. You may notice that if you back up against an appliance that you become a refrigerator magnet.
@ the thread starter you need a therapist ** to locate the stress points to place the magnets. It may not be where the pain symptom is located.
*edit*

Using the new plastic coated strong ones, is quite easy.

You can separate them easily, they do not "shatter" and they are easy to handle.

For neuropathy pain, finding the nerve path is helpful. The first post here has that information.

I have never used them over "stress points". Also using the very strong ones available now, you don't even need them for long periods. I only do about 20minutes to a site.

I have never been stuck to a refrigerator either! LOL:p
I only use them in bed for short periods of time.

Application of magnets is similar to application of Lidoderm patches. The principle is to interfere with a major nerve path to
stop it from firing too much.

Has anyone tried qmagnets?


http://www.qmagnets.com/index.php

Seems as they are based In Austrailia.
I found an interesting article on their site about central pain sensitization.

http://www.qmagnets.com/central-sensitization.php

I have having a hard time with my alloydina and am getting desperate. I have read articles stating that magnets are a waste of money and any positive effects are a placebo effect. If the magnets slow down the firing of the troubling nerves I assume that would hyper my burning hypersensitivity.

Some feedback would be appreciated.

Sure you can buy fancy expensive magnets (and WOW look at those prices!)...or get the same results for 2 bucks each. Your choice. They will only work if very strong, high gauss, and placed in the right spot.
You have to be willing to experiment with placement and polarity as explained in this thread. I've used magnets for over a decade. And still get scoffed at, BTW.

The American version of the "4 little ones arranged in a square) are listed in this thread.
Quadrablocs. still expensive.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Quadra..._edit_sections
These are the old MagnaBlocs sold to a new distributor.

Placement is the key to success. And patience.

MrsD, are the plastic ones weaker than the regular nickel coated ones if you say can pull them apart easily? Have you compared their strengths?

Also, is it safe to sleep with these magnets on all night (it'll be on the arch of my foot)? Do you stop at 20 minutes because you don't want to overdo it or because you don't need it anymore?

The plastic coated ones, do lose a bit of strength, but they still penetrate well. On the foot it would be no problem. The plastic covered ones are much thicker so depending on where you place it you may not be able to walk on it safely. You'd have to tape one on, in that location. The plastic ones are regular neodymium ones with plastic on the outside...this prevents breakage and corrosion too.

When I did my feet I used non-plastic smaller ones, that were like this:
http://www.amazon.com/Disc-Package-E...dymium+magnets

You'll have to figure the polarity yourself. Basically the wrong pole will stimulate nerves, and the correct pole will block pain impulses. I put tape between my skin and the magnet, to prevent corrosion of the nickel coating. And also some people react to nickel with irritation anyway. I use surgical tape.

If you buy small magnets be aware of the danger to children and pets. Death can occur if swallowed.
Also you cannot use magnets if you have an implanted medical device.(cardiac pacemakers, SCS spinal cord stimulators, and
shunts for the brain.)

I love the magnets and still use them. I made a pad of 3 sewn in a row, for my back to lie on in bed. I use the one inchers with no plastic cover for that.

Without the plastic the really high gauss ones can penetrate 6 inches, which is enough for the back, but perhaps not quite enough for buttocks, depending.

You can leave the little ones on, if you want.
I stop at 20 minutes now, because I get relief usually by then, so why keep it on longer?

Cool, thanks Mrsd. Just ordered a set of the plastic ones. I actually found this site that explains there's a 45% reduction from the plastic.

They still have 5 lbs of pull so that's pretty good. I figure just stacking 2 would boost the overall strength and maybe get close to what one nickel plated one would have if I don't feel the effect from one.

Also, I found some more magnets on amazon that have gold plated magnets specifically for using on your skin. A bit more expensive, obviously, but still less than I expected (and the nickel ones usually come in packs of 10 which i don't need, so I'm really spending the same if I only need one). I found them after I ordered the plastic so I'll see if they work first before trying a stronger gold one.


EDIT: apparently I can't post links yet on the forum, but you can just search 'neodymium magnets gold' on amazon and you'll find them.

Thanks.

I have a set of tiny gold ones....I used them on my broken toe years ago. The nickle ones if not covered in tape corrode with time. I have some old ones that look horrible now. It is from the acids in the skin, basically.

I think you will find the plastic covered ones very strong. On the foot they don't have to penetrate very far, anyway.
It takes a bit of experimenting to find you "sweet spot". Anatomy helps....
http://www.northcoastfootcare.com/pa...e-Anatomy.html
yellow signifies nerves.
You might find that whole site very informative and helpful.
I think it is the best on the net you can find.

Pulsed magnets
 

Mrs. D.,
Do you know anything about pulsed magnetic therapy? I'm trying it to rebuild my nerves; http://www.drpawluk.com/medithera-home-system/
I don't expect a miracle; I just hope it speeds the process.
Steven

Those things seem so expensive! Complicated.

In effect the magnets interrupt unwanted over-firing nerves.

Once the interruption is recognized often the nerve stops with time. I think magnets work on the ion channels like Lidoderm patches without the drug, of course.

I've used both, and have had good results with both. The Lidoderms seem more permanent over time, but I have good results with only 20 minutes or so with the magnets, as well. For my broken toe, I needed the magnet taped on for a few days...since it was taking down the swelling as well.

Alot depends on the person, and location of the pain, and what is really causing it. I've used magnets for over a decade, and still do now. I've made a 3 magnet pad, to lie on when my back keeps me from falling asleep. It works for me. This way I don't need medication, for the most part. Tylenol or Advil liquigels, or a dose of AlkaSeltzer, occasionally works for me too. I have Tramadol for bad days, but anything over 1/2 of a 50mg tab makes me nauseous and I have weird thoughts when I use it.
But the next day my pain is highly reduced. Seems I get 2 days effect. I must be a slow metabolizer!

Very interesting thread. I'm going to purchase the coated ones from Amazon and give this a try. In reading the thread though, I'm uncertain about placement. I have a very deep aching in all of my toes. Do I just tape them to my toes? One in the middle of each set of toes? I read something about placing them on the ankle for toe pain...? I also see it likely won't help the burning on the bottoms of my feet, but is there any harm in using one on the toes and one on the bottom of the foot at the same time?

You can try putting one on the ankle... the two main nerves come down each side of the ankle to all of the foot.

This shows the anatomy...
http://www.northcoastfootcare.com/pa...e-Anatomy.html
The yellow signifies the nerves.

The magnets will work like lidocaine and block the whole nerve itself, not just the end points. So try placing the magnets along a major nerve path.

More examples:
https://www.google.com/search?q=nerv...w=1067&bih=713

When I use lidoderms or my Salonpas I put them on the top of the foot, and all the toes are helped. (instep)

This link illustrates the medial and lateral plantar nerve.
notice these branches come down from the ankle.
http://www.irvinebicycles.com/servic...ssessment.html

I now have 2 pads with 3 each of the strong magnets, sew into them. ( I bought knitting needle covers to use for them). I use them every night on some painful spot on my neck or back...they allow me to not need drugs for pain. Usually only 20 minutes or so is needed. So see if that works for you. All day use is probably not needed in most cases.

These ultrastrong magnets will attract each other...and click together strongly...they can pinch your fingers.
If you use any implanted medical device...you cannot use magnets with them. (pacemakers, or SCS spinal devices).

they will definitely give your fingers a good whack if you arent careful. dont ask me how i know