Magnetic resonance therapy is a proposed alternative treatment method based on the physical principle of magnetic resonance. It aims to activate reparative processes in specific cells and tissues. There is no major clinical trial supporting the effectiveness of the method. The field generated is approximately 10,000 weaker than a diagnostic MRI, standard modern MRI machines being around 1.5 tesla.
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Evidence
Based on first qualitative evidence that magnetic resonance might regenerate cartilage tissue, a number of further studies were conducted.
Some of these studies have shown that NMR may have therapeutic effects on osteoarthritis. The treatment of patients with osteoarthritis of the hand or finger joints resulted in an improvement in the physical function of the hand. There is also evidence that functionality and rehabilitation success is improved for patients with chronic lower back pain.
It was demonstrated, that the method caused a proliferation of the chondrocytes as well as of the osteoblasts. Further, experiments using the technology with fibroblast cultures revealed a significant change in protein synthesis. In addition, crosslinking of collagen and the extracellular matrix was affected.
Application
Supporters of the therapy claim a broad indication spectrum in nonconservative orthopedics. It is intended as a complementary therapeutic method to support the range of service of orthopedics and accident surgery.
The therapy is used for the treatment of osteoarthritis, in particular osteoarthritis of joints and for the treatment of sprained ligaments, tendon extension and sports injuries. Moreover, the therapy is applied for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis as well as disorder of metabolisms in the area of bones.