How Strong is a Magnet?

Magnets are given a Gauss rating. This is a unit of measurement that relates to the strength of a magnet and is connected with the density of lines of magnetic force coming from a magnet. In layman's terms it is like the pulling power of a magnet. In magnet therapy we tend to use the gauss rating.
The pulling power or strength of a magnet is also related to the actual physical size of a magnet. Larger magnets have more mass than smaller magnets and so can store a greater magnetic energy. A magnet with a very high gauss rating may have less overall strength than a bigger magnet with a lower gauss rating. The size of the magnet contributes to the depth of penetration of the magnetic field into the body. Gauss rating alone is not enough to indicate the strength of a magnet.

How Long will a Magnet Last?

Over a period of 10 to 15 years a magnet will only loose only a tiny fraction of its magnetisation. Magnets can remain magnetised for 100,000 years.

How do magnets work?

There are currently two widely accepted theories as to the effect that magnets may have on your body. The first theory involves the effect that magnetic fields have on blood supply. There are many charged ions in your blood, which naturally are either attracted or repelled by magnetic fields. The aforementioned action is thought to cause widening of the blood vessels in the area where the magnet is being used, which in turn 'draws' oxygenated blood into the painful area. The second theory involves the effect that magnetic fields may have on nerves and pain-sensation. Pain-sensitive nerves all around your body, 'fire' more often during bouts of pain & discomfort, sending an almost constant message to the brain which is then perceived as pain. When exposed to magnetic fields, however, theory suggests that these pain-sensitive nerves are inhibited and thus 'fire' less frequently. This is perceived by brain as less pain. As is common knowledge, when you perceive less pain, you relax more and are less likely to suffer from secondary muscle cramps and tension.

How long do magnets take to work, and will they always work?

In many cases there is overnight relief, however, in some cases it takes longer, say several days. But do not give up if no immediate benefit is gained as some people find it may take days, weeks or even months in extreme cases before relief is felt. On the odd occasion, a person may find that they didn't perceive a benefit.