Tension reduction in striate muscle with steady-state magnetic fields

Clinical reports have indicated that a magnetic field will result in the relaxation of muscle cramps. Two experiments were designed to study the phenomenon. Experiment I was- designed to determine if the observed phenomenon is physiologically or psychologically based. In the event that the results of Experiment I indicated a physiological basis for the magnetic field effect, Experiment II was designed to determine the mechanism through which a magnetic field acts. In Experiment I, muscle tension was induced with a cold pressor ice bath. For each subject, muscle tension was significantly reduced (p< 0.01) in the presence of the magnetic field. In Experiment II, muscle tension was induced in one of three ways: a cold pressor ice bath, physical exercise, or electrical stimulation. Exposure to the magnetic field resulted in a significant decrease (p<0.0001) induced by the cold pressor while tension induced by physical exercise or electrical stimulation was not significantly affected by the magnetic field. The results are discussed in terms of a possible magnetic field effect on blood circulation. In addition, magnets are offered as a theraputic aid in the relief of cramps.