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Magnetotherapy: mechanism of action, methodology, indications and contraindications
Last reviewed: 04.07.2025
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Magnetotherapy is the use of constant, low-frequency variable and pulsed magnetic fields for therapeutic and prophylactic purposes. In cosmetology, the most common method is low-frequency magnetotherapy, based on the use of low-intensity changes in pulsed magnetic fields.
Mechanism of action of magnetic therapy
The biological activity of such fields is caused by electric fields and currents induced in the body, the density of which is comparable with the values of the gate currents of single ion channels of excitable membranes. As a result, the speed of action potentials along nerve conductors increases and perineural edema decreases. The resulting magnetohydrodynamic forces increase the oscillatory movements of formed elements and proteins of blood plasma, activate local blood flow and enhance the blood supply to various organs and tissues. Activation of the central links of neuroendocrine regulation of the activity of internal organs leads to an increase in predominantly metabolic reactions in them.
Low-frequency magnetic therapy has vasodilating, catabolic, anti-inflammatory, hypocoagulant, hypogenic, immunocorrective, adaptogenic and stress-limiting effects.
Indications for magnetic therapy:
- itchy dermatoses;
- scleroderma;
- acne;
- postoperative conditions;
- edema of various origins and localizations;
- general and local immunocorrection;
- treatment and prevention of excess body weight;
- treatment and prevention of cellulite;
- slow-healing purulent wounds;
- burns;
- keloid scars, etc.
Methodology of conducting magnetic therapy
Longitudinal and transverse arrangement of inductors in the projection of the pathological focus or segmental zones is used. In this case, in solenoids-inductors, organs and limbs are located in the longitudinal direction of the main vessels along the length of the inductor, and in electromagnets-inductors - in the transverse direction
The duration of the daily or every other day treatment is 15-30 minutes, the course of treatment is 15-20 procedures. A repeat course, if necessary, is prescribed after 1-2 months.
Acne treatment: a course of 10 procedures, daily, the effect is on the frontal area - 10 minutes and on the areas of rashes - 5 minutes each. A combination of a low-frequency magnetic field with an intensity of 40 mT sinusoidal shape, a constant magnetic field with an induction of 40 mT and electromagnetic radiation of the infrared range with a wavelength of 0.87 μm is recommended.
Combination with other techniques:
- electrophoresis;
- deep warmth;
- ultrasound therapy;
- microcurrent therapy;
- endermologie.
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