Nuclear magnetic resonance therapy (MRI) (synonyms: MBST nuclear magnetic resonance therapy, nuclear magnetic resonance therapy, multibiosignal therapy, multi-bio-signal therapy, MBST nuclear spin) is a treatment method in which magnetic resonance imaging (MRI; magnetic resonance imaging; abbreviated as nuclear spin), known from diagnostics, is used therapeutically. The procedure aims at reactivating metabolic processes in the cells, thus enabling the regeneration of defective cartilage and bone tissue.
Magnetic resonance therapy was developed based on observations in which patients reported decreasing pain in their joints following an MRI examination. Researchers then developed the treatment, which uses a much lower field strength than MRI diagnostics.
The procedure takes place without surgery or intervention through injections (shots) or the like. Treatment can be useful if previous measures have not been successful or if surgery is to be avoided due to an existing risk of complications. Furthermore, the method can be an alternative for forms of osteoarthritis for which there are currently hardly any treatment options.
Indications (areas of application)
- Osteoarthritis – application possible in all joints.
- Osteoporosis
- Metabolic disorders in the area of the bone
- Sports and accident injuries with tendon or ligament damage.
Contraindications
- Active implants (pacemakers, defibrillators, pain and insulin pumps) in the treatment area.
- Pregnancy
- Tumors
- Bacterial inflammation in the treatment area
- Leukemia, HIV disease and rheumatic diseases in the relapse phase not recommended.
Treatment duration
The treatment is carried out in five to ten one-hour sessions, depending on the indication and severity of the disease.
The procedure
In magnetic resonance therapy, three-dimensional treatment fields are generated via a static field, a sweep field, and a radiofrequency field. These combine to create a homogeneous treatment area. The generated magnetic resonance field is about 10,000 times weaker than what is needed to examine the body during magnetic resonance imaging. No undesirable side effects occur during treatment.
Scientific studies
Previous studies have tested the therapy primarily in osteoarthritis patients, but its effect has also been studied in chronic low back pain and osteoporosis.
The results of a recent study involving more than 4,500 participants show that the use of magnetic resonance therapy results in significant pain relief. Likewise, it has been proven that the ability to move is significantly improved after treatment. In a study of the long-term effects of the therapy on gonarthrosis patients, sustained pain relief was noted for up to four years after treatment. A cellular study showed that the cell division rate in human cartilage and bone cells increased after the application of magnetic resonance therapy compared to placebo. The effects of the therapy on osteoporosis were investigated in another study. This found increased bone mineralization levels and a significant reduction in symptoms after therapy.
Benefits
Magnetic resonance therapy is a procedure that can be used to treat degenerative diseases of the musculoskeletal system. It has been shown to relieve pain and improve range of motion. The procedure has no side effects and is gentle on the body.
