Physiotherapy

Facial paralysis treatment points with electrotherapy

Bell’s palsy: Causes and Treatments

by Dr. Zsolt Zatrok 2023-09-26

Facial nerve paralysis is the most common form of peripheral paralysis. Within this group, Bell’s palsy is the most common. Regarding facial paralysis, its cause and possible treatments, I wrote extensively in my previous article. The most effective treatments are physiotherapy, electrotherapy and soft laser treatment. In this article, I will describe the electrical treatment of peripheral facial nerve paralysis.

The treatment for peripheral facial paralysis is referred to as denervated treatment. Denervated means: a muscle that has “lost” its motor nerve.

I will mention two devices for stimulation treatment. The first is the German PeroBravo device, the second is the Genesy family of devices from the Italian manufacturer Globus.

PeroBravo is a single-channel device designed for treating peripheral paralysis, facial nerve paralysis and Bell’s palsy. The Genesy models, on the other hand, are 4-channel multifunctional electrotherapy devices, treating peripheral paralysis as one of their functions, but also helping to treat hundreds of other problems.

The PeroBravo offers an amazing “arsenal” of options for the treatment of peripheral paralysis and Bell’s palsy. This wealth of possibilities can only be exploited by professionals with extensive electrotherapy experience. The layperson can only make use of the basic settings.

The Genesis does not offer special settings for denervated programs. The basic programs are in most cases excellent in spite of this and the extra functions and the 4 channels make them a good choice, especially if there are other musculoskeletal problems.

Denervated treatment

When you become paralysed, it’s common for specialist clinics to give you some electrical treatments. Usually for 5-10 days. This treatment in the surgery is certainly not enough, as it takes 3-4 months for facial nerve paralysis symptoms to disappear, even in the best of cases, but most often it takes 6-8 months.

The ideal number of treatments is not one a day, but 3-4.

This cannot be carried out in a doctor’s office; it must be performed at home. To do this, you should buy a stimulator for the purpose.

Facial paralysis primarily results from peripheral paralysis, leading to muscle denervation (loss of motor nerve).

Peripheral paralyzed muscles cannot be stimulated by just any stimulator. You should get a device capable of delivering a slow, long pulse, ideally lasting at least 200-400 milliseconds, which is almost half a second. This treatment, known as denervated treatment, is essential for proper stimulation.

The device you buy at Lidl is certainly not suitable for treating the facial nerve and facial muscles.

PeroBravo stimulator

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an electrotherapy device
denervated treatment – triangle, trapezoidal, square wave
healthy muscle treatment – biphasic square wave
ETS (EMG based) – biofeedback triggered stimulation
time/intensity (i/t) testing support
gait relearning function with foot sensor (peroneal palsy)

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The PeroBravo device is manufactured by the German company MTR Plus, based in Berlin. In Germany, doctors prescribe it for cases of peripheral paralysis.

PeroBravo is specifically designed to address peripheral paralysis (paresis). Programs 1-10 are tailored to correspond with the progression of the paralysis.

Program 1 is for the most severe, complete nerve damage, and then optimised for less and less damaged nerve as the number of programs increases.

This means that in the case of total nerve damage, treatment should start with programme 1 and progress to programme 2 and then to programme 3 every few weeks, depending on the improvement, and so on. Continue with the treatment until the nerve has recovered and can be stimulated with program 10, which is specifically designed for healthy muscle-nerve connections.

We must note, that not all peripheral paresis is complete nerve damage!

Treatment programs of PeroBravo

Therefore, in each case, a different programme will be appropriate to start with. In the case of a partially damaged nerve, program 1 means a pulse that is too long, which is uncomfortably long and uncomfortable (and unnecessary) for the nerve. In this case, one of the higher-numbered programs may be more appropriate.

If you are a physiotherapist, you can do an intensity/duration curve. The PRG 12 provides an automated diagnostic program for this. The practitioner can accurately determine the optimal treatment parameters for a given patient.

In general, your doctor/physiotherapist should tell you which programme is right for you. If specific instructions for the device have not been provided, you should follow to this strategy:

Start Program 07 first.
If you feel a subtle twitching of the muscles, no further attempt is needed, continue with this treatment.
If you don’t feel the muscles contract, switch to Program 06.
If you don’t feel a twitch with 06 either, then go to 05. Keep going like this until you get to 01. You will only need the latter in the most serious case, in case of complete nerve damage. The less severe the nerve damage, the closer you will be to 07.
Whichever muscle contraction feels good, continue with that one.

Genesy 600, 1500 and 3000 devices

The Genesy devices are made by Globus, the best quality manufacturer in Europe. Genesy devices are multifunctional electrotherapy devices that can treat hundreds of problems. Treating peripheral paresis is just one of them.

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multifunctional electrotherapy device
TENS | EMS, NMES, FES | MENS, MCR | Ionto | Denervated
max. 4 channels (8 electrodes)

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[message title=”Genesy 1500 multifunction electrotherapy device” title_color=”#ffffff” title_bg=”#1e73be” title_icon=”” content_color=”#000000″ content_bg=”#ededed” id=””]

multifunctional electrotherapy device
TENS | EMS, NMES, FES | MENS, MCR | Ionto | Denervated | Interferential | Kotz
max. 4 channels (8 electrodes)
battery | mains operation

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For professionals, the device’s more than 400 programs can help treat, repair, cure or prevent thousands of problems.

[message title=”Genesy 3000 multifunction electrotherapy device” title_color=”#ffffff” title_bg=”#1e73be” title_icon=”” content_color=”#000000″ content_bg=”#ededed” id=””]

Multifunctional Electrotherapy Device
TENS | EMS, NMES, FES | MENS, MCR | Ionto | Denervated | Interferential | Kotz
max. 4 channels (8 electrodes)
battery | mains operation

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The Genesy devices do not have as wide a range of programs and as many options for peripheral paralysis as PeroBravo. Doctors and therapists have designed the treatment programs, taking into account today’s medical recommendations.

The Genesy 600 has 1 treatment programme for severe, moderate and mild nerve damage, while the Genesy 1500 and 3000 have 3 to 3 treatment programmes. The latter devices allow the therapist to create his/her own denervated treatment programme, which takes into account the specific characteristics and treatment needs of the patient. This provides with a more tailor-made treatment from the therapist.

You can find the treatment programs in the Program list under Medical Treatments, specifically within the Denervated program group.

A triangle pulse is used for cases of severe nerve damage.
Triple pulse for partial damage, while
A square pulse is used for cases of mild damage

Stimulation treatment of facial nerve paralysis

The facial nerve has three main branches that supply many muscles of the face. In the diagram below, you can see that there are about a dozen muscles in the forehead, around the eyes, around the mouth, in the jaw and in the cheek (cheekbone).

In each case, it may be different which branch, and within that which muscle, is most affected. Some people have problems in all three branches, others “only” in smaller areas.

Treatment should be based on where your symptoms are. Each muscle should receive individual treatment because the extent of damage may vary, and a distinct program may be necessary for each muscle.

Placement and use of electrotherapy devices

Use a small (about 25mm) round electrode for the treatment. Suitable ones are PALS Round 25mm or ValueTrode Round 32mm.

In the below figure, you can see several points.

Connect the negative pole of the cable (usually indicated in black) to the electrode glued near the tab. This electrode will always stay in place. Place the positive electrode (red terminal) on the first point (e.g.: the forehead).

After placing the electrodes, carry out the treatment. When it is finished, put the positive electrode on the next point (e.g.: close to the eye socket), the negative one stays at the ear. Again, repeate the treatment.

Go through all the necessary points one after the other.

In the treatment of facial paralysis (Bell’s palsy), the facial nerve needs to be treated at several points. Use a small (about 25mm), round electrode. Always stick the negative pole near the ear. The position of the positive pole should be varied. Start on the forehead, then when the treatment time is up, move the electrode and treat there too. It’s important to note that not all the points shown require treatment in every case. Be sure to consult your physiotherapist for guidance.

Apply the current carefully. Keep increasing until you feel the muscle contract. Then gradually increase the intensity, treatment by treatment, until you feel the facial muscles contract firmly but not painfully.

The facial muscles are very small, so you can feel the muscles twitch at 2-3 mA (very low) intensity.

If you also have sensory disturbance, be aware that since you can’t feel the pulse, you may be raising the amperage too high. Too high a current intensity can cause a burn-like injury to your skin.

How to make it more efficient!

To make the stimulator treatment more effective, combine it with mimic exercises in front of a mirror!

When you feel the pulse of the device and the muscle contraction while watching your face, voluntarily assist it! The visual stimuli will also transmit impulses from your brain’s visual field to the injured facial nerve. This combined treatment will greatly enhance the activity of healing-regenerative impulses, improving efficiency and speeding up the healing process.

Soft lasers, the supporting therapy for facial nerve paralysis

In addition, to the electrostimulation treatment, the soft laser treatment is an effective treatment for Bell’s palsy either as an alternative or as an additional treatment. Find a similar article regarding facial paralysis treatment with soft laser at home.

Source:
Aghamohamdi D, Fakhari S, Farhoudi M, Farzin H. The Efficacy of Low-Level Laser Therapy in the Treatment of Bell’s Palsy in Diabetic Patients. J Lasers Med Sci. 2020 Summer;11(3):310-315. doi: 10.34172/jlms.2020.52. Epub 2020 Jun 21. PMID: 32802293; PMCID: PMC7369545.

What outcome can you expect?

People with Bell’s Palsy often ask me, “I had Bell’s Palsy a year ago. I’ve had exercise, soft laser treatment, acupuncture, but unfortunately I don’t see much improvement. My left side of my mouth “hangs” like after a visit to the dentist. What do you think my prospects are?”

Well… The answer is in the category of “prediction”.
You can’t tell what the future holds through the internet, or even by meeting a patient in person.
The outcome and effect of medical treatments depends on several factors. To mention a few for example:

When did the treatment begin after paralysis? Not much can be done if treatment starts months after the onset of paralysis. You need treatment (medication, soft laser, electrotherapy) on the day of paralysis.
How long was the treatment session? The majority of patients think that 5-10 sessions of physiotherapy in a specialist clinic, the same amount of soft laser and electrotherapy are enough. Unfortunately, this is not the case. You need to be persistent and usually expect improvement after 3-6 months. For many people, treatment may even go beyond a year.
Was the treatment effective? Treatment with the wrong device, lenght, at the wrong treatment points is pointless and ineffective.

Therefore, what, where and how you treat is very important.

Conclusion

Without treatment, a minority of cases cure Bell’s palsy on its own. The problem is that it is impossible to know in advance who will be so lucky.

Therefore, you have to treat it daily and persistently. For up to one and a half to two years. If there is no change after that time…. well… there are cases like that. In some cases even persistent treatment does not bring results, fortunately, this is a smaller group.

In summary, sticking to the recommended treatment schedule by exercising 4-5 times a day for 10-15 minutes, using electrotherapy at least once daily (multiple sessions are even better), and receiving soft laser treatments every day or every other day can give you reasons to be hopeful about improvement, even though a 100% guarantee is not certain.

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Physiotherapy

Cold sores treatment in two days

by Dr. Zsolt Zatrok 2023-05-03

Cold sores (herpes labialis) is a common viral disease caused by the herpes simplex virus. It usually starts with a red, burning spot on the lips. After a day or two, blisters will develop from the patch, and the area around the blisters may be painful and moist. It usually takes a week to heal, or 10-14 days in more severe cases. With varying regularity, but herpes can recur. Some people “get it” every month or so, while for the lucky ones, it recurs every 1-2 or every few years.

General information about cold sores

Lip herpes is usually spread by droplet infection and symptoms of infection occur during the temporary period when the virus is active. Infection usually occurs when the body’s immune system is weakened, for example by stress, illness or menstruation. It usually causes a mild health problem. In people with a weak immune system, it can also cause a serious situation.

To prevent it, avoid direct contact with the infected and avoid sharing utensils and cutlery.

Traditional treatment for herpes – minimal results

As the problem is caused by a virus, and there is no truly effective antidote for viruses, treatment is “limited” to relieving the symptoms. Cooling gel or cream and painkillers may be given to relieve pain and itching. Antiviral medicines such as acyclovir can help some people.

These have been the medical options available so far, with barely minimal results.

Labial herpes, cold sores and soft laser treatment

And then let’s look at what can be achieved with a laser class 3: Personal Laser L400 or Energy Laser L500 Pro.

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Laser power class 3
808 nanometer laser beam
CW (continuous wave) laser
400 mW power
12.5 sec / 5 Joule

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Laser power class 3
808 nanometer laser beam
CW (continuous wave) laser
500 mW power
10 sec / 5 Joule
Android app – Bluetooth connection

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Cold sores treatment with soft laser

The pictures below document the 48 hours after the appearance of herpes. More about soft lasers.

The affected patient suffers at least 5 to 6 times a year from the appearance of cold sores. Traditional medical treatments do not help. Photos follow the events.

One morning, she woke up to find that a tender, red bump had reappeared on her upper lip. She knows from experience that this is a sign of incipient herpes.
In less than an hour, a straw-coloured fluid blister appeared at the site of the lump, and the pain increased.
That’s when she had her first treatment with the Personal Laser L400 soft laser. She scanned, i.e. the laser beam was moved very slowly over the bladder and also over the surrounding swollen area. Treatment time is 2-3 minutes.
Two further treatments were given during the day, in a similar way to the first. This image shows the status 12 hours after appearance.
The next morning, 24 hours after the appearance, the bladder is no longer tense and the pain is significantly reduced.
36 hours later.
48 hours after the start.

Generally recovery takes at least 5-7 days. The effects of Personal Laser treatment are visible and even more noticeable almost immediately. It really speeds up the healing process.

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Physiotherapy Tools

Medical technology at home – “healing” tools

by Dr. Zsolt Zatrok 2021-07-18

Most people do not know exactly what a medical device designed for home use is. Let alone which one, what it is for and how to use it. Because of this, many people are “misinformed”. They buy a device and then expect an effect that the device cannot provide. They want to treat symptoms of a disease for which it is unsuitable. Let’s start from the bottom!

Officially defined, a home medical device is a tool that can be used by the patient without the presence of a doctor or health professional. It helps to maintain, repair and even cure temporary or permanent health problems or disabilities.

To put it simply, they are actually “tools” with which you can “fix”, “adjust”, “fine-tune” various “malfunctions” or conditions of your body. Each medical device is designed for a different use, i.e. to treat a different complaint, symptom or condition.

An everyday example to illustrate the point

Knife, spoon and fork – all cutlery. You can get small and big. For picking, meat, fish, cakes, desserts, and sauces. A fork is no substitute for a spoon, just as a spoon is no substitute for a fork. You can’t eat soup with a knife, nor can you cut meat with a spoon. For a multi-course meal, you’ll be serving several types of cutlery. Each utensil has a different function, but each one has its own ability to get everything into your mouth and keep you full. If you only have a spoon for a meal, you can easily eat soup, and scoop in a main course, but chopping up a roast is no longer an option. If you have a knife and fork next to your spoon, you can eat your lunch faster and more efficiently.

Let’s apply this to medical devices

One eases pain, the other doesn’t. One is a good anti-inflammatory, one is a moderate anti-inflammatory, and one is not at all. One stimulates wound healing, the other does not.

Some medical devices help you heal in different ways. You can use them individually, but multiple tools can work together to enhance and speed up your healing.

For example, if your back hurts from sitting too much, a TENS machine will reduce the pain but has no healing effect, so your pain will return. If you use a muscle stimulator to strengthen your back muscles, the pain will go away over time and never return. This happens because you have eliminated the cause of the pain, which is the weakness in your spinal muscles. so eventually your pain will be permanently gone. You get even better results when you combine TENS and EMS treatments. TENS quickly reduces your pain, while the muscle stimulator eliminates the cause of the pain.

In my blog, I’ll tell you what you can expect from these devices, how to use them, and which other methods you can combine to enhance their effects. This can vary from symptom to symptom, from disease to disease. In fact! What worked for your neighbour -for a similar complaint- may not work for you.

Before you buy a home medical device, do your research! First of all, you need to know whether the device you choose is really suitable for what you want to use it for. For example, if you expect TENS to have an anti-inflammatory effect, it’s like trying to cut up a roast with a dessert spoon.

What the medical device can be used for

The home medical device is not a replacement for the hospital, but a way to continue at home a few days of treatment started in the hospital, to complete the recovery.

Technology is advancing so fast that today’s home medical devices are more effective than hospital devices were even 10-15 years ago. Their safe and simple use allows you to apply them to your healing without the presence of a doctor.

In addition to treating illnesses, modern devices can also be used to prevent illnesses and maintain health. By using them regularly, you can improve your quality of life.

They help prevent diseases.
They help in the early detection of certain diseases.
Allow monitoring of existing diseases, conditions and the effects of treatment.
Help treat, improve or at least prevent certain diseases or conditions from getting worse.

Some groups of home medical devices are not exhaustive

TENS device

Provides effective and long-lasting pain relief using electrical pulses. Most effective for musculoskeletal pain. Compared to medication, TENS treatment has the advantage of having no side effects, while the pain relief effect can last from a few hours to a day. However, it does not have a curative effect, i.e. it does not cure the disease causing the pain.

Microcurrent electrical stimulation (MENS) device

Microcurrent is a more effective pain relief method than TENS. Recent studies have shown that around 90% of people receiving microcurrent treatment reported relief of pain after 10 treatments.
Its main advantage is that while TENS does not cure the disease itself, it only relieves pain, microcurrent treatment is also curative! More on that here. The microcurrent restores the altered electrical potential of the diseased cell membrane, stimulates ATP production and protein synthesis, and regenerates the cell – very effective healing.

You can use microcurrent to treat inflammation, injury, tears, pulling, abrasions, scars, ulcers, oedema and many other conditions.

Muscle Stimulator (EMS)

Can be used for muscle and joint pain. You can use it to treat muscle atrophy and muscle weakness. You can improve joint stability and thus reduce joint pain.
It is an essential tool for rehabilitation in case of paralysis caused by stroke, accident or infection!
For athletes, it is also excellent for supplementing training as well as improving muscle recovery.

Iontophoresis unit

It helps you deliver active ingredients topically to the skin and joints. Commonly used to treat sports injuries, and joint pain and to enhance the effects of cosmetic products.
It is excellent for the treatment of palms, soles and armpits sweating that do not respond to other treatments.

Therapeutic ultrasound

In addition to relieving muscular and joint pain, muscle and tendon stiffness, and reducing inflammation, it is also suitable for beauty treatment (acne, cellulite, cellulite, cellulite treatment, fat reduction).

Soft laser therapy

In arthritic conditions (rheumatism, arthrosis, tendonitis, inflammation of the jaw joint, etc.), they are effective in reducing pain and inflammation, stimulating cell regeneration and thus healing.
It accelerates the healing of scars, including wounds (ulcers) that do not heal with other treatments. Excellent for the treatment of cold sores, shingles, and facial nerve sores. Lastly, it can be used in Bell’s palsy and partial facial paralysis treatments.

Humidifier

It can be used to increase the humidity of the air, which helps to prevent and treat various respiratory diseases.

Inhaler, also known as a medicine nebulizer

It plays a vital role in the treatment of respiratory diseases. The device creates an inhalation spray of medicine and thus the drug can be delivered directly to the lungs. In asthma attacks, it provides an immediate effect in asphyxia.

Salt therapy device

Primarily used for prevention in cases of colds (flu), croup, asthma attacks, hay fever, respiratory allergies.
In case of acute symptoms, it strengthens the effect of medical therapy and less medication is needed in case of bronchitis, COPD, cystic fibrosis, pneumonia, flu, sinusitis, etc.
It is also useful in eczema and psoriasis.

Magnetotherapy device

Unfortunately, in this country, this method has been discredited by some “scam” sales companies and has been undeservedly overshadowed. Yet magnetotherapy is a recognised method of physiotherapy. It is used in medical practice to treat long-standing musculoskeletal disorders (osteoporosis, fractures, arthrosis, arthritis, etc.).

(Pneumatic) Compression therapy unit

Effective solution for the maintenance, at-home treatment of lymphedema.
Also excellent for the treatment of any stages of venous insufficience (heavy legs, varicose veins, venous ulcers) and also for post-thrombotic conditions.

Paraffin treatment

It reduces rheumatoid joint pain and is also excellent for treating dry, fragmented skin.

Defibrillator

Electric much provide resuscitation for victims of sudden cardiac death. Such equipment is needed in as many places as possible, as some 80,000 people in our country die from sudden cardiac death every year, typically at a young age and unexpectedly. With a defibrillator, at least some of them could be saved. Without a defibrillator, they’re hopeless.

Home ECG machine

You can record the electrical activity of your heart, the ECG curve, at any time. For example, if you experience a heart rhythm disturbance or pain in the heart, you can use the instant recording to help your doctor (because by the time you see a doctor, you may not be able to see what caused the complaint).

Pulse-oximeter

Provides monitoring of blood oxygen saturation, which is important for those suffers from heart or respiratory disease.

Blood glucose meter

Provides diabetics with blood glucose monitoring and treatment.

Blood Pressure Monitor

An automatic device that determines blood pressure.
It helps in the early detection of hypertension (high blood pressure).
Its most important role is that allows regular monitoring of the effect of antihypertensive therapy.

Modern medical devices are now available to everyone, are safe and provide effective help in the management of disease and symptoms.

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Physiotherapy Treatments

Magnetotherapy in practice

by Dr. Zsolt Zatrok 2021-06-03

Magnetotherapy is a widely used physical therapy method in Western Europe. The electromagnetic field is generated by a current flowing through a coil. It accelerates microcirculation and tissue regeneration processes. Here you can read about the diseases that can be treated with magnetotherapy. In this article, I write about how to use magnetotherapy for the best results.

Key parameters of magnetotherapy

Magnetic therapy is defined by four main parameters: field strength (Gauss), frequency (Hz), duration (hours and minutes) and cycle time (DC).

The intensity of the field is still expressed in Gauss, despite the fact that the SI system uses Tesla. The magnetic intensity is an important parameter for the effectiveness of the treatment.

To give an example, the Earth’s magnetic field is 0.3-0.7 Gauss (30-70 µTesla). At the other extreme, intensities above 1000 mTesla (10 000 Gauss) can cause permanent genetic damage.

In home magnetic therapy treatments, intensities lower than 10 mTesla (100 Gauss) are used for biostimulation, and regeneration treatments, while those between 10-100 mTesla (100-1000 Gauss) are used for healing treatments.

Devices suitable for medical magnetotherapy generally use low frequencies (between 1-200 Hz). The lower frequencies in this range are mainly used to treat bone and joint disorders, while the higher frequencies are used to treat soft tissue (tendons, ligaments, muscles, blood vessels, nerves).

The time (duration) of each treatment depends on the lesion. Disorders of bone formation, such as prolonged fracture healing, pseudo-arthritis, and osteonecrosis, usually require 6-8 hours of treatment per day (for 1-2 months). For low back pain, tendonitis and similar complaints, shorter treatment times are appropriate. 30 minutes a day for 20-30 days.

The electromagnetic field can be continuous or pulsed. The cycle time (DC) determines whether there is pulsation. If the cycle time is 100%, the magnetic field is continuous. If it is below 100%, then it is pulsating. The default cycle time in Magnum devices is 50%. This means that the magnetism and the pause are of the same length (on-off). Continuous magnetism has a more intense effect on the organs, but it may not be the better one!

Pulsation often has better results! For example: you want to drive a nail into a board. If you put the hammer on the head of the nail and keep “pushing” it, the nail will not go into the board. But if you hammer it… This example, while not entirely accurate, illustrates how the intermittent pulse is different.

When to change the set programmes?

In Magnum magnetotherapy devices, the parameters of each program are set according to medical guidelines. Typically, there is no need to change them, unless your doctor suggests otherwise.

The field intensity should be changed if, for example, the area to be treated is covered with a thick bandage, plaster or other fixation. Although the magnetic field will still penetrate these, it is necessary to increase the field intensity. The frequency and cycle times for each programme are also based on medical research, so you don’t need to adjust the frequency either.

For severe bone disorders (pseudoarthritis, osteoporosis, fracture), the default treatment time for programs is set to the minimum required. In these cases, longer treatment is better. Therefore, for these, set a treatment time of several hours when you have time for longer treatment.

In general, for home use, only change the default setting on your device if your doctor specifically recommends it.

The magnetic field

A pulsating magnetic field is created by an electric current passing through a coil. A solenoid is a metal surrounded by a series of coils. The direction of the current determines the polarity, so each solenoid has a north and a south pole. The “S” indicates the South pole of the solenoid and the “N” indicates the North pole. The field is therefore created both above and below the coil.

Knowing the poles is important for correct solenoid placement.

Solenoids placed side by side

If you place a solenoid with one of its poles on the surface of the body, its magnetic field will penetrate the body. It has an effect both under the solenoid and in its immediate surroundings. If the area to be treated is large (e.g. the spine from the neck to the waist), several solenoids are needed. If only one is available, it is necessary to treat in several steps. First on the neck, then between the shoulder blades, on the back and finally on the waist. This of course takes four times as long.

If you have more than one solenoid, you can treat a larger area at once. In this case, place each solenoid with the same pole towards the skin. This way they create a common magnetic field.

Solenoids placed facing each other

Many times, a small area requires treatment. E.g. wrist fracture, leg fracture. In these situations, position the solenoid on both sides of the injured area. This method combines the magnetic field on both sides, resulting in greater and deeper penetration.

You can only achieve a coherent magnetic field if you position the coils correctly. The figure shows the polarity. The two solenoids should be aligned as parallel as possible, facing each other; otherwise, the two fields will not interconnect, resulting in a somewhat weaker effect.

Before you put the solenoid on, the first thing you should do is check the polarity. This will determine how to position it and the type of treatment it is suitable for.

You can undergo magnetic treatments while lying down. However, you can secure the solenoids with Velcro tape. So you can even treat while working in the office.

Treatment time

Like all physical therapy methods, the effects of magnetotherapy are not “immediate”. The meaning of biostimulation is: the stimulation of biological-physiological processes. For example, the healing of a broken bone is a process that takes months. A cut will close in a few days, but the scar will reach its final strength in 90-100 days.

Biostimulation treatments at regular intervals and over a long period of time (weeks) help and speed up these processes, but do not shorten them to a few days! Magnetotherapy is used to treat bones, joints and ligaments, which are particularly slow to heal, so patience and perseverance are required.

I will list some conditions and the general treatment principles, frequency and treatment times associated with them. Ask your doctor for a personalised treatment protocol. If you do not get one from him, follow the general suggestions below. You will find the necessary treatment programmes in the Magnum magnetotherapy models, but not all of them. Check the program list before you buy to see if the device is right for your needs.

GENERAL TISSUE REGENERATION

This treatment is commonly used for large-area abnormalities such as neuropathy. The main cause of this condition is damage to nerves, and receptors and insufficient regeneration. The programme can also be used to support the immune system in general and as a preventive measure. For example, starting 2-3 weeks before the “season” helps to increase the “strength” of the immune system. It helps to prevent spring-autumn flu or respiratory allergies.
General protocol: 6-8 hours a day for 12 weeks

FRACTURES

Fracture treatment programs can be used from the first day after injury. The magnetic field penetrates the plaster and plastic brace. However, the thickness of the plaster increases the distance between the solenoids and the bone. It is therefore recommended to increase the magnetic field intensity by 50-60%.
The opposite placement of the solenoids is important. Position the coils above the fracture. If you have more than one solenoid, you can use both to create a more intense magnetic field. It proves especially useful when treating a large area, such as above the femur and tibia.
General protocol: 8 hours a day for 30 days

Bone necrosis

Used when bone deficiency has been diagnosed by X-ray or MRI. Also applicable in case of insufficient bone blood supply. Injury typically causes this condition, although it can also be attributed to prolonged corticosteroid usage or excessive alcohol consumption.
General protocol: 8 hours a day for 5 months

Bone edema

Usually used for bone bruising and periosteal damage. The injury causes an abnormal accumulation of fluid around the bone. The main cause of this condition is a strong and blunt impact. The second most common cause of bone oedema is wear of the articular cartilage.
General protocol: 8 hours a day for 30 days

Delayed fracture consolidation

Used in cases where the fracture is not healing properly. This is the case in people with osteoporosis or vascular/metabolic changes. Less commonly, it may also be caused by inadequate fixation – if the broken bone ends can move. You should place the solenoids opposite each other if possible. The daily duration of treatment can vary from a few hours to 10-12 hours.
General protocol: 3-8 hours a day for 30 days

Pseudo-joint

Recommended when fracture healing exceeds nine months. For this reason, the patient has often undergone surgery and/or received synthesis devices (plates, screws or external fixators). These can make it difficult to position and fix the solenoids properly. Therefore, consultation with the treating physician is essential. An individual fitting plan may be required, taking the situation into account.
General protocol: 8 hours a day for 5 months

Osteoporosis

Magnetic therapy is recommended for progressive (gradual) weakening of the bone structure. Bone tissue is vital for supporting the body. Bone structure undergoes continuous changes throughout our lives. In osteoporosis, this bone remodelling mechanism is distorted, resulting in structural weakening of the bone.
The pulsed electromagnetic field activates the bone-building processes. It restores the balance between the activity of osteoblasts (the cells responsible for bone formation) and osteoclasts (the cells responsible for bone breakdown).
To treat larger areas, it may be useful to use MAT 100 or TotalBody mats (optional accessories).
General protocol: 8-10 hours a day for 12 weeks

Joint cartilage wear, Arthritis, Back pain

General protocol: 30 minutes a day for 6 weeks

Joint pain

General protocol: 15-40 minutes a day for 3 weeks

Back pain

General protocol: 20-45 minutes a day for 3 weeks

Algodystrophy / Sudeck’s syndrome

For algodystrophy syndrome, magnetotherapy can be used even if the limb is immobilised in a plaster cast. It is also suitable for microtrauma of the foot, upper leg, wrist, and hand. In these cases, the initial phase is characterized by swelling, redness, heat, and severe pain, particularly during physical activity involving the affected limb.
General protocol: 4-6 hours daily for 4-8 weeks

Hip and knee replacement

Magnetotherapy supports regeneration (recovery) after implant placement. It enhances prosthesis incorporation and the formation of strong surrounding bone tissue. The medical literature recommends a minimum of 3-4 hours of treatment per day, but your doctor may recommend a different application time.
General protocol: 3-4 hours daily for 60 days

Post-operative treatment

To be used after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction or cartilage cleaning. Pulsed magnetic therapy can be started from the first days after surgery. It reduces pain, oedema and inflammation and speeds up healing.
General protocol: 4-6 hours daily for 60 days

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

You can use magnetotherapy as soon as you notice the initial symptoms. The greatest improvement is seen at this early stage. Carpal tunnel syndrome results from the compression of the median nerve. The nerve runs from the forearm through a canal called the carpal tunnel and up to the fingers. Magnetotherapy helps to reduce pain, reduce inflammation and improve mobility of the hand and fingers.
General protocol: 30 minutes a day for at least 15 days.
If needed, you can repeat this cycle.

Tendinitis, tennis elbow

General protocol: 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week for 3 weeks

Rotator cuff disorders

General protocol: 3-8 hours per day, 4 weeks

For conditions like tendonitis, tennis elbow, and rotator cuff disorders, position the solenoids over the painful area, ideally opposite each other. During the acute phase, combine magnetotherapy with other physiotherapies and doctor-prescribed medication, and during the sub-acute phase, it can be used as a standalone treatment.

Treatment accessories and their use

There are a variety of solenoids available for Magnum magnetotherapy devices. These can be used for different treatments. You should choose based on the area or condition you need to treat.

Magnum flexible solenoid, standard

There are 2 coils of opposite polarity. Therefore, use it specifically to treat fractures, inflammations, and injuries of the arm and leg bones, hand, foot, wrist, elbow, shoulder, ankle, knee, and hip. Apply it in a manner similar to a blood pressure cuff by placing it around the area to be treated. This design ensures that the two solenoids are positioned opposite each other on the bone or joint, thereby linking the magnetic fields.

Magnum flexible solenoid

Optionally available with a 40×15 cm flexible solenoid for large-area handling.

There are 4 coils with the same polarity. Therefore specifically suitable for the treatment of the spine, pelvis, hip or longitudinal fracture of the femur. Do not apply this cuff in a circular manner; instead, lay it along the spine, for example. The coils create a magnetic field with a large surface area but not too deep.

Magnum Soft4 solenoid

Contains 4 coils in soft sponge bags. The smooth side of the case is the south (S) pole of the coil, and the north (N) side is the opposite side where the strap retainer is located.

The size is 25x25cm, making it ideal for the back, waist, pelvis, and hips. It can be a good solution when placed under the affected part of the body e.g. tennis elbow, epicondylitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis. It can be used at work or at the desk.

Magnum Pocket Pro solenoid

Contains 2 coils in a zip-lock removable textile case. The case clearly indicates the south (S) and north (N) poles. Suitable for smaller areas. If you have more than one Pocket Pro, you can place them next to each other with the same pole (for treating larger areas) or opposite each other, e.g. for treating fractures or joint injuries.
You can attach them with Velcro straps.

Magnum mattresses

Three types of mattresses are available. The smallest is the MAT 100 mattress. Its size is 70×45 cm. It contains 4 coils with a textile cover and “memory foam”. This means that you can treat it by placing it on a chair or armchair and sitting on it. Ideal for treating e.g. thigh bones, hips, pelvis, lower back, back, shoulder and neck. Also excellent for long treatments lasting several hours!

TotalBody 200 and TotalBody 400 mattress

These large mats are recommended for long treatments lasting several hours, when the whole body or a large part of it needs to be treated at the same time. For example, osteoporosis, multiple arthritis, spinal disorders, allergies, immune strengthening, circulatory improvement or sleep improvement.

The TotalBody mattress has a total size of 70×180 cm. It can be placed on the bed, or under the sheets, so you can even treat yourself while you sleep. The mattress consists of 4 smaller units.

For Total Body 200, only 2 of the 4 mattress units have magnetic coils. This allows you to create multiple distributions by varying the mattress elements.

With Total Body 400, there is no compromise. Each section has 4 magnetic coils, giving you a full body treatment.

How to choose from the Magnum magnetotherapy machine models

The main differences between the devices are the number of treatment channels, the intensity of the magnetic field and the number of treatment programs.

Number of treatment channels

Only one magnetic actuator can be connected to the Magnum L. Buy it if you are treating a single-sided problem. For example, you want to stimulate the healing of a fracture in your wrist or elbow.

The Magnum XL, 2500, XL Pro and 3000 Pro operate two channels simultaneously. With the 3000 Pro, it is possible to run different programmes on the two channels (for example, a bone fracture on one output and an arthritis programme on the other). This is important if, for example, you are treating two patients at the same time or sharing a treatment with your partner. With the Magnum XL, 2500, XL Pro, it is possible to operate two operators at the same time, but only with the same program. So, for example, if you have inflammation in both knees, you can treat them at the same time.

The Magnum 3500 Pro has four channels, so you can treat up to four channels at the same time. In 2+2 mode, you can set different programs on outputs 1-2 and 3-4, meaning you can treat two patients and up to 2 full-body mats at the same time.

[message title=”Magnum XL magnetotherapy device” title_color=”#ffffff” title_bg=”#1e73be” title_icon=”” content_color=”#000000″ content_bg=”#ededed” id=””]

For home therapy
26 predefined programs
Power: 280 Gauss total power
For treating osteoporosis, arthrosis, arthritis, etc.

[/message]

Magnetic intensity

I mentioned above that intensities lower than 100 Gauss are used for biostimulation and regeneration treatments, while those between 100-1000 Gauss are used for healing treatments. Consequently, higher intensity results in a stronger healing effect. The higher the magnetic field intensity of a device, the higher its price. You have to find a compromise between the complaint and your budget.

Just because the magnetic intensity is low does not mean that the device is not effective! With a lower-intensity device, more treatment will be needed for improvement and healing. It’s like driving a car: if you drive slower, it takes more time to reach the finish line. But you will get there

Number of treatment programmes

The more expensive a device, the more programs it provides. Medical experience and guidelines inform the creation of treatment programs. Different frequencies, intensities, and treatment durations are needed for various conditions, such as minor inflammation in the wrist, Achilles tendon issues, or a femoral neck fracture or osteoarthritis.

A device with a limited number of programs is suitable for general treatment, such as treating general fractures. In contrast, more expensive devices offer a breakdown of multiple programs, providing separate programs for wrist, humerus, tibia, femur fractures, and more.

You don’t necessarily need the device with the most programs! But the one that suits your current needs. That could be the Magnum L. Magnum XL and XL pro also offer rehabilitation and beauty-wellness programmes. The Magnum 2500, 3000 Pro and 3500 Pro can be suitable not only for home treatments but also for physiotherapy treatments.

Comparing Magnum devices

Magnum device version	L	XL	2500	XL Pro	3000 Pro	3500 Pro
number of channels	1	2	2	2	2	4
simultaneously treating multiple patients	no	not	no	no	Yes 1+1 battle.	Yes, 2+2 buckles.
Intensity per channel (Gauss)	120	140	160	200	200	200
max. magnetic intensity (Gauss)	120	280	320	400	400	800
rehabilitation programmes	8	16	52	32	70	70
beauty programmes	none	10	none	12	none	none
personal use	yes	yes	yes	yes	yes	yes
prof. use	no	no	yes	yes	yes	yes
cosmetician	no	yes	no	yes	no	no
connect mattress	no	yes	yes	yes	yes	two at a time
bone fracture	yes	yes	yes	yes	yes	yes
osteoporosis	yes	yes	yes	yes	yes	yes
arthrosis	yes	yes	yes	yes	yes	yes
arthritis	yes	yes	yes	yes	yes	yes
tennis elbow	yes	yes	yes	yes	yes	yes
edema	yes	yes	yes	yes	yes	yes
tissue regeneration	no	yes	yes	yes	yes	yes
wounds, scars	no	yes	yes	yes	yes	yes
sleeping disorder	no	no	yes	no	yes	yes

[message title=”Magnum XL magnetotherapy device” title_color=”#ffffff” title_bg=”#1e73be” title_icon=”” content_color=”#000000″ content_bg=”#ededed” id=””]

For home therapy
26 predefined programs
Power: 280 Gauss total power
For treating osteoporosis, arthrosis, arthritis, etc.

[/message]

[message title=”Magnum 3500 magnetotherapy device” title_color=”#ffffff” title_bg=”#1e73be” title_icon=”” content_color=”#000000″ content_bg=”#ededed” id=””]

For professional therapy
Can manage 2 mattresses at the same time
70 predefined programs
For treating sleeping disorders, osteoporosis, arthrosis, arthritis, etc.
Night programmes

[/message]

10 comments

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