- #1
SF
Is there such a thing as bone repair stimulation through EM fields?
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Can a Bone Stimulator Aid in Repairing Bones?
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Discussion Overview
The discussion revolves around the potential for bone stimulators, particularly those utilizing electromagnetic (EM) fields, to aid in the repair of bones. Participants explore the mechanisms, credibility, and historical context of such devices, touching on both medical applications and theoretical considerations.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory
- Debate/contested
- Technical explanation
Main Points Raised
- Some participants inquire about the existence of bone repair stimulation through EM fields.
- There is skepticism regarding the credibility of claims about EM fields being beneficial for bone repair, especially in light of past beliefs that electric blankets were harmful.
- One participant notes that bone growth stimulators in medicine typically rely on electrical current rather than EM fields.
- A theoretical approach is proposed involving a loop of copper wire inside the bone, suggesting that a time-variant magnetic field could induce current, although this raises concerns about safety during MRI scans.
- Another participant expresses doubt about the effectiveness of induced currents, suggesting they would likely be too small without a copper wire present in the bone.
- Information is shared about a specific case where a bone stimulator was prescribed post-surgery, with anecdotal support from medical professionals regarding their effectiveness.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express a mix of skepticism and curiosity regarding the efficacy of EM fields in bone repair, with no consensus reached on the credibility of the claims or the mechanisms involved.
Contextual Notes
Some claims rely on assumptions about the presence of materials within bones and the effects of EM fields, which may not be universally applicable or verified.
- #2
Moonbear
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Years ago, the belief was that electric blankets were harmful for bones because of the EM fields created (and then electric blanket designs were changed to use paired wire configurations to cancel out the EM fields), now these guys are claiming it's beneficial. 
I'm not sure if EITHER claim was/is credible.
I'm not sure if EITHER claim was/is credible.- #3
Ivan Seeking
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I know that bone growth stimulators are used in medicine, but that relies on the flow of electrical current, not EM.
- #4
Poop-Loops
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Ahh, but you see, if you had made a loop of say copper wire or something inside the bone, then applied a time-variant magnetic field, you'd get current in the wire!
Oh, yeah, umm... I wouldn't get an MRI after that point, though.
Oh, yeah, umm... I wouldn't get an MRI after that point, though.
- #5
Ivan Seeking
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Poop-Loops said:
Yes, induced currents do come to mind, but one would expect the currents to be far too small since most people don't have a copper wire inside their bones.
- #6
Tsu
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Here is some info from the University of Oregon. Ivan's mom had back surgery at UCSF over a year ago and her doctor prescribed one for her to help speed the repair caused by numerous back surgeries. Not the most comfortable of devices, but the neuro guys at UCSF say they help...