It looks to me as tho this so called research is totally inadequate.
See also the comments of readers below the article. Like one of them, I
am surprised that the bmj saw fit o publish it.
Peter
As I understand, the researchers tested three types of bracelets:
1) Strong magnets
2) Weak magnets (much weaker than is usually claimed to be of medical
benefit)
3) No magnet at all
Patients in the "strong magnet" and "weak magnet" groups generally
realised they had magnets (by noticing that they stuck to things) while
those in the "no magnet" group did not.
The result was that people who KNEW they had magnets felt better, more
or less regardless of whether the magnets were or were not powerful
enough to supposedly be clinically effective. Those who knew they did
NOT have magnets did not feel better. (I have simplified the findings
but that is the broad conclusion)
In other words, this study just proves that the placebo effect works!
Having said that, although I don't believe magnets work (other than by
placebo), I disagree with those who say it is wrong to do research on
them.
diclidophora@yahoo.co.uk - 24 Jan 2005 17:06 GMT
It isn't wrong, but it must be thorough and objective
Peter