MAGNETIC FIELDS BASICS
Static/TMF Differences
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Both extremely low-frequency (ELF) magnetic
fields and geomagnetic static fields are all around us. Most
research evaluating time-varying fields has ignored the Earth's
static magnetic field effects upon their systems, that is, that
local variations of the Earth's field could significantly alter
results and make comparison studies very difficult to interpret.
Calcium flow into cells is affected by the combined presence of
a TMF (Time Varied Field) and SMF (Static Magnetic Field). Separate exposure
experimentally (isolating each one) to either a TMF or a SMF
alone has no effect. When we use MFs for treatment we cannot
separate the background fields from affecting the treatment, in
fact using either type of EM depends on both being present.
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For better or for worse, there
are those who live or die by only using or recommending static
MFs and those who will only use TMFs. So much information
focuses on the differential effects of north or south poles.
There is virtually no, good published scientific evidence
supporting these claims, even less that has that has been
"peer-reviewed." North vs South polarity is probably
of minimal importance in guiding clinical practice, and is based
on limited science. Because scientific support for different
effects is not strong, it becomes a matter of belief and faith.
Believe if you want - it probably does not really make much of a
difference which ever side of a single pole-sided magnet is
applied. Multipolar magnets make this argument irrelevant. As a
doctor, I need better information to guide my recommendations.
To me the issue is more one of static vs pulsed magnetic fields.
I believe that there is a place for both static and TMFs. It's
not an "either - or" decision. Statics are more easily
available to all. Note, that I have been quoted by the TV and
radio media to say, that even "fridge magnets can stop a
headache."
There is a "spectrum" of use from the simple to the
sublime. I have personally used most of the magnetic systems
"out there." I've even testified in court about some
of them. Some I haven't used, because my wife won't allow any
more magnets in my house! They were very similar to what I
already tried and tested. I am always willing to try something
new … but it needs to be better somehow. It would need to have
additional clinical advantages.
So … when you ask, "what
do I use"? This is not a simple decision! If your problem
is a little problem - a splinter in your toe - I use a little
solution - a fridge magnet. If the problem is BIG and complex -
I choose more elaborate, "high-powered" solutions.
What if I want to stay healthier
the rest of my life? This is where the understanding of MFs and
biologic actions becomes important. Ultimately, what is
important to you is unimportant to someone else, and vice versa.
Fortunately, these days, there are a lot of choices in the
magnetic systems to choose from.
Another factor … choose your
source of information and recommendations carefully. Not all
sources (suppliers) can combine the medical, scientific,
practical and theoretical to give you the best advice for you. I
resist suppliers that want to load you with all kinds of magnets
- just in case. I am still concerned about energetically
overloading the body's "circuits." Often, the same
magnet can be used for multiple needs. For example, a shoe
insert can be used for headaches, gastritis, back or arm pain
and for the feet.
That's why we offer you this
website as hopefully the BEST, most balanced source for
BIOELECTROMAGNETICS information for healing. Few other sources
combine the medical, scientific, practical and theoretical to
give you the best advice for you, as an individual.
And … this is also why I offer
consultations. No one shoe fits all.
Well … back to statics vs PEMFs.
Throughout the history of
electromagnetic field bioeffects a multitude of different
signals (ie types of magnetics - SMFs or TMFs) have been used
and found effective. Some argue that only this or that specific
signal will create a desired clinical or biological goal. While
we all seek this level of certainty, it is clear that the same
biological outcome very often is achieved with very different
signals. Laboratory systems have shown measurably identical
responses to both pulsed RF and static magnetic field signals.
The Ca2+/Calmodulin-dependent
myosin phosphorylation system (that makes muscles work better
and even relax better) has been extensively studied with both
static magnetic fields between up to 900 G and with several
pulsed RF (PRF signals). A comparison of typical results shows
that a 450 G static field and a 0.2 G, 27.12MHz sinusoidal wave
PRF signal both accelerate phosphorylation nearly twofold.
Similar behavior has been obtained for nerve cell growth from
chick embryo nerve ganglia. Nerve cell length was increased
about 2 fold with both these signals.
The results depend on the
characteristics of the induced electric field for the PRF signal
and on the strength of the magnetic field for the magnet. One
possible common target pathway for both weak electric and
magnetic fields is the dynamics of ion/ligand binding.
Therefore, unless different
systems are actually compared in a scientifically rigorous way,
for a given need, it is difficult to judge what system will work
best or to some extent. Clinical judgment and experience will be
have to be the best guide in making a selection.
The differences between static
and TMF systems and approaches remains to be better
demonstrated. For the moment, I will continue to use static
magnets for acupuncture/reflex system and local superficial
tissue actions. Otherwise they will remain in my hands a second
cousin to PEMFs in the overall value expected and my goals for
better overall health. Further research will guide other
treatment options.
All this is to say that various
MF systems and signals can be effective for various problems.
Some will give you better results with fewer problems than
others.
This website will help you sort
through which system will work better for your problem. If your
problem is not covered on the clinical problem area of this site
or you want more information you can also review the "Ask
Dr. Pawluk" section for questions others may have already
asked and we have answered, that may help you. If not, go to the
consultation tab, to see if that would meet your needs better.
Whatever you do, I sincerely hope
magnetics are able to help you with your problems.
