MAGNETISM

Using magnets to relieve pain isn't new - the ancient Eygptians cottoned on to the idea way back. However - it IS simple and effective - and magnetic therapy is now one of the most popular alternative therapies in the world.

Magnets can be used to ease joint pains, backache, sports injuries, carpal tunnel syndrome and headaches. I'm wearning a magnetic bangle right now - I suffer with a form of RSI and too much hard work can play havoc with my thumb joints. Apparently, the NHS will soon be prescribing magnetic leg wraps after being impressed by their cost effectiveness. Even animals can make use of magnetic therapy, you can get collars and underlays for their baskets.

I've found that the magnetic bangle from Magnetic Therapy does seem to work - I've been working really hard lately at the office and at home, and I haven't had any twinges, which is quite unusual. The injury I had kept me off work for seven months in 2003, so I really do have to be careful and take it easy if I get any problems.

It gets better - a lot of the evidence in favour of magnetic therapy has, over the years, been anecdotal, but now that it's being taken more seriously by the medical profession, there have been literally hundreds of clinical studies being conducted all over the world – the majority looking at the effects of magnetic stimulation in the treatment of depression.

High-speed magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans are being heralded as a breakthrough by researchers who have reported that it produces an effect in the brain, similar to the use of anti-depressants. The potential of this research is profound as it could offer a new way to treat depression, that is drug free...

There are some fab designs in the latest Magnetic Therapy range - I'm lucky enough to have two to choose from, the silver ball and the green bracelet, which are both really gorgeous.