I see people wearing magnets around their knees or ankle for arthritis. Is there any proof that this works? I might give it a try if there is.

Arthritis is a chronic disease and treatment with antiinflammatories can cause significant side effects. That's why finding alternative ways to treat it is essential. Magnet therapy has been advertised for this condition, but studies are lacking to show if they are safe and effective.

Some published studies support the idea that a static electromagnetic field (SMF) can relieve pain. But there have been conflicting reports, so the data is not consistent. And in all studies, the placebo group also reported less pain when wearing a wrap without magnets.

A recent study from Taiwan showed that a magnetic knee wrap for patients with osteoarthritis is safe, effective, and low cost. Using measures of strength, pain, and function, the patients who used the magnetic wrap showed significant improvement over the control group who wore a placebo wrap.

This low-cost option for home treatment is good news for the many older adults who are limited by their knee arthritis. Getting up from a chair, walking, and going up and down stairs can be very difficult. A simple magnet wrap that can increase strength and reduce pain means better function and improved quality of life.

If this conservative method does not give you the symptom relief you are looking for, there are always other options to look into. Medications, physical therapy, and steroid or hyalurone injections are also available. Talk to your doctor about your plan of care before making your decision. Get all the facts and then apply them to your own individual situation.