Open access

Energy Medicine

Written By

Christina L. Ross

Submitted: 26 April 2012 Published: 18 December 2012

DOI: 10.5772/52818

From the Edited Volume

Alternative Medicine

Edited by Hiroshi Sakagami

Chapter metrics overview

4,432 Chapter Downloads

View Full Metrics

1. Introduction

Energy medicine (EM) is medicine based on physics instead of biochemistry. Energy medicine works with subtle forms of energy known as chi or prana that exist in and around the human body. EM treats with the understanding that all illness results from disturbances in this energy known as the human biofield. Physics does not override biochemistry, it drives it. Biology and chemistry behave according to the laws of physics. Physics is the study of energy. The human body is made of energy. It has structure (bones), plumbing (digestive tract), and electricity (nervous systems), all infused with energy. Energy is a property of all matter, therefore cells, molecules, and atoms are all made of energy. Science has begun to measure the subtle but important energy field around the human body and research is showing that when the natural flow of energy is obstructed, disordered, and depleted, the body becomes diseased [1]. Pharmaceuticals affect chemical signals in the body but EM affects electromagnetic signals in the body. EM heals using an integrated system that supervises the interaction of all the body’s systems and is not only faster, but more efficient. A continuous, uninterrupted flow of energy through the biofield plays the main role in health and healing.

In 1989 the term energy medicine was coined by the International Society for the Study of Subtle Energy and Energy Medicine which studies the science of medical and therapeutic applications of subtle energies. Energy medicine came under government guidelines in 1992 when the National Institutes of Health (NIH) established the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine [2]. According to the NIH, energy medicine is defined as a form of complementary and alternative medicine which has two distinct categories:

Veritable energy medicine, which uses mechanical vibration (sound) and electromagnetic radiation (light) in order to affect health and healing. Veritable EM involves the use of specific, measurable wavelengths and frequencies to treat patients. Many of the human body electrical systems and electromagnetic fields are well known, and veritable forms of EM are being used in well established models for patients in today’s medicine. Examples of veritable forms of EM are the use of lasers and magnetic pulses which have been found to be therapeutic. Commonly used forms of veritable EM such as electrocardiogram (EKG), electroencephalogram (EEG), Computerized Tomography (CT or CAT) Scan, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and ultrasound equipment are currently being used in traditional medical applications.

For many years it was thought that electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure would cause only harmful effects in the body, but it is now understood that the amount of energy (field strength or amplitude), and the frequency of the field is what determines whether it is harmful, therapeutic or benign [3]. In particular, ionizing radiation has been shown to cause harmful effects by breaking the electron bonds that hold molecules like DNA together[4, 5]. Ionizing radiation includes alternating current (AC) that is produced by power lines, electrical wiring, and electrical equipment. Some epidemiological studies have suggested there is an increased risk of cancer associated with magnetic field exposure near electrical power lines [3, 6, 7]. The energy in non-ionizing radiation, however, is not strong enough to break ion bonds in atoms and molecules [8, 9]. Depending on the frequency and amplitude, the beneficial effect of non-ionizing EMF has been reported to affect natural killer cells fighting cancer and viruses [10-16], traumatic brain injury, post-operative infections, as well as bacterial and viral related inflammatory responses that are major complications in today’s medicine [17-19]. Extra low frequency electromagnetic field (ELF-EMF) in the 50 Hz range has been reported to prohibit bacterial growth and improve immune response against bacterial infection [20].

Veritable EM treatments also include pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) therapy. A Pulsed Electromagnetic Field device has been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for bone repair, although it remains widely unused due to physician misunderstanding and lack of knowledge concerning the treatment [21]. PEMF therapeutic devices can be applied in two different ways - either by capacitive or inductive coupling. In capacitive coupling there is no contact with the body, whereas direct coupling requires the placement of opposing electrodes in direct contact with the surface of the skin of the targeted tissue [22]. Inductive coupling does not require electrodes to be in direct contact with the skin because it produces a field (see Faraday’s Law of Induction) that emanates in all directions. Research shows that therapeutic applications of PEMF at extra low frequency (ELF) levels (3-300 Hz) are beneficial to the immune system by suppressing inflammatory responses at the cell membrane level [23]. PEMF can pass through the skin and into the body’s conductive tissue [24-26], resulting in reduced pain and the onset of edema shortly after trauma. Where edema is already present, treatment exhibits significant anti-inflammatory effects [27]. In a study of the effect of PEMF therapy on arthritis, three hours of exposure to a 50-Hz magnetic field revealed that experimentally-induced inflammation in rats was significantly inhibited as a result [28]. Strong beneficial effects have also occurred using 75 Hz frequency MF treatment in patients suffering from fractures of the ankle joints [29]. PEMF treatments also promote cell activation and endothelial cell proliferation through the cell membrane. ELF levels can increase the rate of formation of epithelial cells in partially healed wounds [30] and also quicken the healing time of skin wounds [31]. Fields at 15 Hz were used to significantly accelerate wound healing in diabetic mice [32]. Skin wounds have electrical potentials that can be stimulated by ELF-EMF to aid in the healing process by dedifferentiating cells near the wound, thereby accelerating cell proliferation [23]. In a study examining the effects of whole body magnetic fields (50-165 Hz) on patients suffering from different forms of cancer, results showed the MF therapy had overall beneficial effects, particularly with respect to improved immune status and postoperative recovery [33]. Treatment consisted of 15 cycles, each 1-20 minutes in duration coupled with more traditional cancer therapies. PEMF has also been reported to reduce pain and inflammation after traumatic brain injury [34], decrease osteoarthritic inflammation [35], and reduce neuropathic pain [36], as well as control the growth of lymphocytes [37].

EMF treatments appear to improve certain psychological conditions as well. A study of twelve patients with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and major depression underwent PEMF treatment of either 1 Hz or 5 Hz as an adjunct to antidepressant medications. Seventy-five percent of the patients had a clinically significant antidepressant response after treatment, and 50 percent had sustained that response at 2-month follow-up as compared with controls. Comparable improvements were seen in anxiety, hostility, and insomnia [38]. Low-frequency PEMF therapy at 0.1 – 64 Hz has been shown to improve mobility function, pain, and fatigue in fibromyalgia patients [39] as well. It has been firmly established that tissues such as blood, muscle, ligaments, bone and cartilage respond to biophysical input, including electrical and electromagnetic fields. Research shows that certain field strengths and frequencies of PEMF appear to be disease-modifying [Table 1].

Condition B or Freq * Treatment Duration Treatment Number  
 Key Finding
Alzheimer’s [40] 5-8 Hz 30 min 2x Significantly improves cognitive function
Arthritis [41] 50 Hz 60 min 3x Reduction of pain and inflammation
Back Pain [42] 64 Hz 16 min until pain stops Statistically significant potential for reducing pain
Bacterial Infection [20] 50 Hz 4 – 6 h 1x Increased immune response against bacteria
Cancer(breast, colon and prostate tumors) [43] 0.1 Hz to 114 kHz 4 months 2x/week Tumor specific frequencies showed significant decrease in size
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome [44] 20 Hz 4 h daily Statistically significant short- and long- term pain reduction
Chronic Bronchitis [45] 30 mT 15- 20 min 15x Proved effective in patients suffering from chronic bronchitis when coupled with standard drug therapies
Edema [27] 70 mT 15 - 30 min 6x Significantly reduces acute edema
Fibromyalgia [39] 0.1-64 Hz 30 min 2x day/3 weeks Improved function, pain, fatigue, and global status in FM patients
Gastroduodenitis [46] 100 Hz 6-10 min 8-10x 77 % of treatment patients experienced elimination of gastro-esophageal and duodenogastral refluxes compared to 29 % of controls
Mastitis [47, 48] 10-25 Hz 60 min 1x/2-3 mos Significantly reduced post-op inflammation
Multiple Sclerosis [49] 1-25 Hz 2-24h/day Up to 5 weeks PEMF device significantly alleviated symptoms
Migraine Headache [50] 27.12 Hz 1 h/day 5days/wk/2 wks Effective, short-term intervention for migraine, but not tension headaches
Nerve Regeneration [51] 2 Hz/0.3mT 1 h/day 10 days Pre and post injury exposure suggests that PEMF influences regeneration indirectly
Neuritis [51] 10-100 Hz 6 min 10-12x Produced beneficial effects in 93% of patients suffering from nerve problems
Oral Surgery [52] 5mT/30Hz 30 min 3-5 days prior to Significantly reduce inflammation in clinical trials
Osteoarthritis [53] 25 G/5-24 Hz 25 G/5-24 Hz 18x Rapid improvements of immuno-logical indices & alleviates symptoms
Pain and edema [54] 1mT or 5 mT 6 h/day 90 days Significantly aids in clinical recovery
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder [38] 1Hz or 5Hz 40 sec or
8 sec/1 hr
20-30 days Seventy-five percent of patients had a clinically significant antidepressant response
Rheumatoid Arthritis [55] 30 mT 30 min 15 – 20x Reduces pain in chronic pain populations
Septic Shock [56] 50 Hz/2mT 6 h 1x E. coli became more sensitive to antibiotics
Skin Ulcers [57] 75 Hz/2.7 mT 4 hr/day for 3 months Positive effects but only in small lesions
Tendonitis [58] 30 mT 60 min 10 – 20x Significant beneficial effects
Whiplash [59] 64 Hz 8 min 4x Considerable and statistically significant pain reduction
Wound Healing in diabetic mice [60] 15 Hz 8 h/day 24 days Postoperative pain was significantly reduced for a decrease in the need for analgesic resolve

Table 1.

Veritable EM therapies applied to various conditions. * B=magnetic field; G=Gauss; T=Tesla; Hz=Hertz; 1 mT=10 Gauss

How do veritable EMF therapies work?

The mechanism for action of EMF on cells and tissues is based on how cells can detect and generate electromagnetic fields in general. Biological systems such as cells communicate not only with each other but also interact with their environment [61, 62]. This is done through several mechanisms at many levels depending on the type of cell tissue and nature of the information being communicated. Most known mechanisms in the literature address cell-cell interaction as chemical or electrical signaling, but intercellular interaction can also be attributed to electromagnetic fields (EMFs) [63]. Burr et al published a report on stable voltage gradients in various biological systems back in 1935 [64]. Since then researchers have discovered that these stable gradients can be altered when the whole organism undergoes biological processes such as growth, localized injury and microbial invasion. Because EMFs radiate, they behave in a wave-like manner (Figure 1).

Figure 1.

The biological effects of low-frequency magnetic fields have been the subject of extensive studies since they can penetrate deep into tissues [65-72]. It has been shown that low-frequency EMF can act at the cellular level affecting various cell functions, including cell proliferation and differentiation [73-76], apoptosis [77-79], DNA synthesis [80, 81], RNA transcription [82], protein expression [83], protein phosphorylation [84], re-dox mediated rises in NFkB and cell damage [85, 86], microvesicle motility [87], ATP synthesis [88], hormone production [89], antioxidant enzyme activity [90], metabolic activity [91], and the inhibition of adherence [92]. It has been proposed that the initial interaction occurs outside the plasma membrane, but could also involve interactions with transmembrane proteins [93, 94]. For example, NIH3T3 cells exposed to a 50 Hz PEMF for over 2 h significantly increased the clustering of intermembrane proteins compared with controls [95]. Investigators concluded that the signal was likely being propagated and amplified through the intracellular signal transduction pathways [96]. An example of this is when the calcium stored in the intracellular compartment prompting mitochondria to produce free radicals (which increase DNA response) [97] can be controlled by PEMF[98], providing a first order effect in preventing the onset of inflammatory responses. The impact of EMF on calcium channel protein has been reported many times [99-102]. The genes that encode ion channels are important because they produce the gradients that determine downstream cell behavior. Future advances in this work will fully integrate bioelectric cascades. Increased understanding of how these mechanisms work will lead directly to devices that stimulate cell treatment directly to the damaged region producing the bioelectromagnetic changes needed to repair and regenerate tissues.

Effect of EMF on cytokine production

It is now well established that exogenous applied EMFs affect cell signaling and cytokine production. PEMF treatment appears to be disease-modifying in a model studying osteoarthritis [103]. Since transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) is understood to upregulate gene expression for aggrecan (a cartilage-specific core protein), downregulate matrix metalloprotease and IL-1 activity, and upregulate inhibitors of matrix metalloprotease, the stimulation of TGF-β could be considered a mechanism by which PEMF favorably affects cartilage homeostasis.

Application of PEMF does not appear to alter the cell immunophenotype of fibroblast-like cell populations, but does appear to decrease the production of inflammatory cytokines IL-1β and TNF-α. PEMF also appears to increase anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 [104]. Both IL-1 and TNF-α concentration in the synovial fluid were significantly lowered while TGF-β was significantly higher compared with controls. Large bone formation was also observed one month after osteochondral graft implantation using PEMF treated grafts which favor early graft stabilation [105]. PEMF exposure at 75 Hz, 45 mT limited bone resorption in the subchondral bone while cytokine assessment in the synovial fluid indicated a more favorable articular environment for the graft.

EMF and Inflammation

EMF has many well documented physiological effects on cells and tissues including anti-inflammatory effects. MF therapies can provide noninvasive, safe and easy to apply methods to directly treat the source of pain, injury, inflammation and dysfunction [106]. Low-frequency EMF has a long term record of safety, backed by tissue culture, animal and clinical studies which have been conducted for over two decades [107]. Although the exact mechanism of anti-inflammatory effect is unclear, the cell membrane is most often considered the main target for EMF signals [106]. It has been reported that EMF affects membrane mediated signal transduction processes, especially the Ca2+ transport system [108]. Early events in signal transduction play a critical role in calcium influx in the lymphocyte. Because calcium is an important second messenger for a wide variety of important cellular processes such as RNA, DNA and protein synthesis; modulation of calcium signaling by electromagnetic fields has the potential to influence these cell functions [108]. Studies have demonstrated that EMF can stabilize the cell membrane by restoring membrane protein activity (Ca2+ -ATPase) and maintain intracellular Ca2+ levels [109, 110]. Biological systems in transition have been shown to be more sensitive to EMF exposure than in stationary systems. In one study immune compromised animals constituting systems in transition state were shown to be more sensitive to EMF exposure; whereas healthy animals, considered to be in relatively stable systems, exhibiting no sensitivity to the same field parameters [111]. Low-frequency, low-intensity EMF was reported to be beneficial in reducing inflammation without potential side effects indicating its value as a viable alternative for treating inflammatory responses. In living systems, from planarian flatworms to humans, mechanisms involved strongly suggest that therapeutic EMF applications stop inflammation first, then initiate healing [98].

Advertisement

2. Veritable EM Devices

PEMF Knee Device

The PEMF knee device is an FDA-approved device consisting of a cuff that surrounds the knee. It has a coil and heating pads that send magnetic pulses and heat through injured tissue. This device combines PEMF energy and thermal therapy to increase circulation, reduce swelling, relieve chronic pain and arthritis, as well as improve range of motion. It has been reported to benefit patients with osteoarthritis [112].

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS)

Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) uses electric current to stimulate nerves to induce therapeutic treatment. These devices are usually connected to the skin using electrodes. A typical TENS device is able to modulate pulse width, frequency, and intensity of the electrical field it uses. TENS applied at frequencies above 50 Hz uses intensity below motor contraction (sensory intensity). TENS applied at frequencies below 10 Hz, use an intensity that produces motor contractions [113]. Studies show that TENS stimulates nerves in order to reduce both acute and chronic pain [114, 115].

PEMF Mats

PEMF mats produce a therapeutic pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) that surrounds the entire body. PEMF whole-body mats are promoted in many countries for a wide range of therapeutic applications. Randomized, sham-controlled, double-blind trials focusing on osteoarthritis of the knee (3 trials) or the cervical spine (1 trial), fibromyalgia (1 trial), pain perception (2 trials), skin ulcer healing (1 trial), multiple sclerosis-related fatigue (2 trials), or heart rate variability and well-being (1 trial) have been performed, with outcomes varying between improvement and ineffective [116]. PEMF mats are primarily advertised and distributed over the internet, and are often used without medical supervision. More research is needed to repeat outcomes. As of 2012 they have not been approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

The second type of energy medicine is known as putative energy medicine.

Putative energy medicine is based on the idea that human beings are able to influence subtle forms of energy with their hands, intentions, or meditation. By focusing on these subtle energies, EM practitioners are able to feel vibrational frequencies with their hands and align the biofield through healing treatments [117]. Putative energy medicine is an all-inclusive term used for practices that include, but are not limited to Acupuncture, Alexander Technique, Bowen Technique, Chakra Balancing, Craniosacral Therapy, Eden Energy Medicine, Energy Psychology, Feldenkrais, Healing Touch (HT), Nambudripad's Allergy Elimination Techniques (NAET), Polarity Therapy (PT), Reiki, Rolfing, Therapeutic Touch (TT), Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Trager Approach and yoga.

Putative EM is based on the understanding that a therapist instead of a device is able to facilitate healing by balancing disturbances in a patients’ energy field. Practitioners are able to generate sub extremely low frequency (sub ELF) fields (0.3-30 Hz) from their hands through meditation and intention [118, 119]. This subtle energy entrains the biofield of the patient and initiates a healing effect. Instruction on body movement is also used to shift energy imbalances. Treatments are carried out in an integrative and holistic manner. The concept of holism in medicine dates back to 460 B.C. with Hippocrates, the father of medicine, positing the idea that every aspect of our body and mind are interrelated to every other aspect of our being [120]. Manipulation of the holistic field allows for healing throughout the entire being – body, mind and spirit.

How Putative EM Techniques work

The hands of EM practitioners produce coherent electromagnetic fields that affect the human biofield in many ways. A measuring device called the Superconducting Quantum Interference Device (SQUID) is a magnetometer used to detect very weak biomagnetic fields. SQUID has detected frequencies coming from the hands of practitioners in the sub extra low frequency electromagnetic field (sub ELF-EMF) range of 0.3 to 30 Hz [121]. The signal emitted by a practitioner is not steady or constant, but moves through the range of sub ELF-EMFs with an average range around 7 – 8 Hz. EM techniques are capable of producing healing results because they directly affect mechanical vibrations in the membrane and the cytoskeleton of human cells as well as the biofield in general. Many research studies have detected the frequency limit of cell oscillations to be only 30 Hz [122-126], which is the same frequency range coming from the hands of EM practitioners. This suggests a subtle resonance involved in the healing process. An interesting characteristic of energy emission from any living organism is that it stays somewhat organized in its fields. It has a tendency to remain stable and does not randomly dissipate [127]. Biofield vibrations are like tuning forks, acting as both transmitters and receivers of vibration coming from their environment. They resonate at specific harmonic pitches when we are healthy. When we are not healthy a non-coherent type noise vibrates from our cells and our biofield. Valerie Hunt, PhD, Professor Emeritus in the UCLA Department of Physiological Sciences has been conducting research in this field for over 40 years. She was the first to research the relationship between changes in bioenergy fields and human health. In mapping bioenergy fields, Hunt has found that each individual has a unique resting pattern she calls the Signature Field. “The Signature Field of a healthy human being is composed of balanced, coherent energy patterns running the full spectrum of frequencies (4 – 20 microns in wavelength [128]). This coherency shows up on a graph as smooth, gentle, shallow waves evenly distributed throughout the frequency spectrum”. There are two types of patterns in the Signature Fields of people who have (or are soon going to develop) disease: deficiency patterns, and hyperactive patterns. They appear in graphs as thick, jagged waves concentrated in the high- or low-frequency bands (Figure 2).

Figure 2.

Deficiency diseases like cancer and chronic fatigue syndrome have what Hunt calls “anti-coherent” patterns in the high frequency ranges, with almost no energy at all in the lower frequencies. Hyperactive conditions like colitis, hypertension, and skin problems show anti-coherent patterns in the low frequencies, with absent vibrations in the high frequencies [129]. The sub ELF-EMF frequency emitted from the hands of EM practitioners is capable of retraining the incoherent frequencies back to a healthy state. Gentle changes in body movement exhibited in EM therapies such as Alexander Technique, Feldenkrais and yoga retrain the cells and biofield back to a healthy vibrational state as well. The application of energy medicine, whether from a medical device or from the hands of a practitioner, is a viable alternative or complement to conventional medicine. Free flowing energy throughout the body eliminates physical health problems attributed to pain, disease and structural dysfunction [130]. EM significantly increases energy levels even if no specific problem exists [131]. It is used as both a preventative as well as a healing treatment.

Energy Medicine Therapies

More people are turning to energy medicine because of its holistic approach that includes not just the physiological, but mental, emotional and spiritual aspects of disease. Being diagnosed with a life threatening illness is very emotionally and psychologically disruptive; EM helps the patient find solace despite challenge. It also eases or counteracts the side effects of conventional therapies [131]. When it comes to selecting an EM therapy there are a variety of options. The following EM treatments are substantiated by peer reviewed published research:

Acupuncture uses meridians of Eastern medicine traditions which form a continuous, semiconducting network. This Chinese medical procedure uses the stimulation of specific points on the body where the insertion of needles through the skin removes blockages in the flow of chi through the body’s meridians to reinstate health. Acupuncture needles are metallic, solid, and hair-thin. Experienced differently, most people feel little or minimal pain while the needles are inserted. Some feel energized by treatment, others feel relaxed. Acupuncture has been shown to improve treatment related pain in cancer patients [132], pain management for women in labor [133], treatment of temporomandibular (TMJ) disorders [134], treat infertility, improve symptoms of menopause [135], improve insomnia [136], and improve chances of successful in vitro fertilization [137]. Relatively few complications have been reported from the use of acupuncture; however, acupuncture can cause potentially serious side effects if not delivered properly by a qualified practitioner. Make sure the practitioner is a certified Licensed Acupuncturist (L.Ac.).

Alexander Technique improves physical postural habits, particularly those that have become ingrained or are conditioned responses. The technique has been purported to improve athletic performance, self observation and impulse control, as well as relieve chronic stiffness, tension and stress. It changes movement habits in everyday activities, improving ease and freedom of movement, balance, support and coordination, teaching the use of appropriate amount of effort for a particular activity, increasing energy. It is not a series of treatments or exercises, but rather a reeducation of the mind and body. It can be applied to sitting, lying down, standing, walking, lifting, and other daily activities. Strong evidence exists for the effectiveness of Alexander Technique lessons for chronic back pain and moderate evidence in Parkinson's-associated disability [138].

Bowen is a gentle technique involving a series of moves held for several seconds and then released. The therapist gently pulls the skin on the back of the neck, knees, or affected body part away from the muscle or tendon beneath it and applies light pressure following a specific pattern. Bowen relieves both physical and psychosocial problems, including pain, sports injuries [139], shoulder problems [140], postpartum symptoms [141], fatigue, anger and depression [142].

Chakra balancing based on the seven energy centers along the center of the human body starting from the base of the spine to the top of the head. Chakras are responsible for keeping vital energy flowing through the biofield. They create openings for life energy to flow into and out of the aura. Their function is to vitalize the physical body and to bring about the development of our self-consciousness. They are associated with physical, mental and emotional interactions. An energy worker trained in chakra balancing will determine which chakras are functioning poorly and which chakras are over stressed in order to keep the body’s energy balanced. When one or two chakras are performing at a reduced level, the remaining chakras have to work harder. Having a non-functioning or closed chakra can cause another chakra to blow, creating havoc in the biofield [143]. Blown chakras cause pain and initiate disease. Chakra balancing reprograms the chakra system to flow as nature intended.

Craniosacral therapy (CST) is a manipulation technique involving light touch to the cranium (skull) and sacrum (tailbone). It is based on the theory that the movement of bones within the skull and the lower back, as well as the rhythmic flow of cerebrospinal fluid (in and around the spinal cord), play a central role in the body’s overall function. Obstruction of this flow of spinal fluid contributes to problems in the brain, spine and endocrine system. Research shows statistically significant improvements in the treatment of migraine headache using CST [144].

Eden Energy Medicine activates the body’s natural healing ability by restoring weak or disturbed energy. Eden EM utilizes techniques from acupuncture, yoga, kinesiology, and qi gong. Energy is brought back into balance by tapping, massaging, pinching, twisting, or connecting specific energy points (acupoints) on the skin; by tracing or swirling the hand over the skin along specific energy pathways; through exercises or postures designed for specific energetic effects; by focused use of the mind to move specific energies; and/or by surrounding an area with healing energies. There is qualitative evidence that Eden EM relieves pain; stimulates immune function, relieves headaches, releases stress, improves memory, enhances digestion, relieve arthritis, neck, shoulder, and low back pain [145].

Energy Psychology (EP) addresses the relationship of energy systems to emotion, cognitive behavior and health [146]. Energy psychology uses imagery, narrative, and hyperarousal associated with traumatic memory or threatening situations to resolve traumatic memory [147]. When the brain reprocesses traumatic memory, the new association is retained by reducing it to hyperarousal. This leads to treatment outcomes that involve less time with fewer repetitions and higher impact. These techniques show less chance of retraumatization [147]. During EP treatments, mental/emotional/spiritual problems are healed through the biofield. The biofield is connected through the consciousness, thought processes and spirit, and includes the electrical activity of the nervous system, heart, meridians, biophotons (energy field particles), and chakras.

Feldenkrais Method uses gentle movement and directed attention to improve range of motion and enhance human functioning. Based on principles of physics, biomechanics and an empirical understanding of learning and human development, Feldenkrais exercises have been reported to be an effective way to improve balance and mobility, flexibility and coordination, helping to offset age-related declines in mobility and reduce the risk of falling among community-dwelling older adults [148].

Healing Touch (HT) is an energy medicine practice involving the relationship between the practitioner, the patient, intention, and the power of touch to facilitate healing. Like most EM treatments the patient is lying on a massage-type table, where the practitioner applies different forms of touch in order to assess the patient’s biofield imbalances. HT is widely used to help ease pain, stress and anxiety [149]. Patients receiving music, imagery and touch therapy during angiograms or other cardiac procedures were 65 percent less likely to die in the following six months than patients who received no such intervention [150]. Other research shows that HT lowers blood pressure, heart and breathing rates, fatigue, mood disturbances, and pain in patients receiving chemotherapy [151]. HT is endorsed by the American Holistic Nurses’ Association.

Nambudripad's Allergy Elimination Techniques (NAET®) is an EM treatment designed to alleviate allergies using a combination of energy balancing, testing and treatment procedures from acupuncture/acupressure, allopathy, chiropractic, nutritional, and kinesiological disciplines of medicine. Research suggests it is effective in treating allergies to milk, sugar, egg whites, pork meat and other foods causing eczema and dyspnea [152].

Polarity Therapy (PT) uses touch, verbal interaction, exercise, and nutrition [153] to balance and restore the natural flow of energy in the biofield. Blocked and stagnant energy is responsible for both emotional and physical pain as well as disease. Energy medicine treatments are patient-practitioner oriented, where both the giver and receiver of the energy treatment work in tandem to facilitate treatment. The practitioner grounds and centers his/her body, meaning all thoughts, emotions and physical sensations are neutralized through intention. This mindset begins the healing process for both the practitioner and the client. PT balances the subtle energy of the biofield which can be detected and manipulated by movements of the practitioner’s hands. The practitioner provides the resonating template for the patient’s biofield to follow. Change occurs on a spiritual or unconscious level, and most people do not feel much other than becoming very relaxed. This mind-body state is optimal for healing and cell regeneration. After effects of the treatment last from hours to days with feelings of calm, focus, peace and serenity. PT bases its philosophy in the traditional system of Ayurvedic medicine, which defines patterns of health as energy moving through the Five Elements of Life – Ether, Air, Fire, Water and Earth. The practice of PT focuses on the balance of these elements as the foundation of good health. It integrates philosophies of Ayurvedic medicine, hermetic or ancient Egyptian medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), chakra balancing and the balance of yin and yang. PT understands that energy flows through the body along five pathways, enabled by positive and negative poles of the body. Five energy centers along the body represent the five elements of Ayurvedic tradition relating to different organs and functions in the body. Practitioners aim to correct disturbances and enable optimal physical, emotional as well as spiritual healing. Along with energy balancing sessions, cleansing diet and energy exercises are part of the therapy. PT has been shown to reduce cancer related fatigue [154], and improve the quality of life for caregivers of dementia and Alzheimer’s patients [155] as well as improved stress reduction in burned out oncology professionals [131].

Reiki is an ancient Tibetan Buddhist practice in which practitioners serve as facilitators for life force energy (chi). Reiki is used to reduce stress, improve health and quality of life, and promote mental clarity. Practitioners use 12 – 15 specific hand positions each held for a few minutes on the patient’s clothed body. Sessions last 30-90 minutes and the number of treatments may vary. Like other EM therapies, Reiki practitioners assert treatments can be effective over long distances. Formal scientific evidence has shown that Reiki can increase quality of life and reduce pain when used with standard medications [156]. Reiki has also been reported to relieve stress and improve psychological well being in patients with heart rate variability [157], and pain management issues [158].

Rolfing focuses on fascia tissue that connects all internal structures within the human frame. Connective tissue unites the structure of the body and divides it into individual functioning parts. Fascia is constantly changing and adapting in response to demands placed on the body. It reacts to trauma to a joint for instance by producing extra tissue to enhance stability and support; however, it can produce more than is necessary. In time, rather than stabilizing movement it can actually reduce mobility, leading to a changed posture and altered patterns of movement. After completing ten sessions a client can expect greater ease of movement and all over range of motion, along with better posture. Rolfing has been shown to significantly decrease pain and increase range of motion in adults who have cervical spine dysfunction [159].

Therapeutic Touch (TT) is similar to PT and HT, except practitioners usually do not actually touch the patient, but hold their hands 4-8 inches (10-18 cm) from the body in order to detect energy imbalances and correct them. TT has been shown to significantly reduce pain and increase the quality of life in fibromyalgia patients [160], significantly decrease pain and improve function in patients with osteoarthritis [161], produce significant reductions in behavioral symptoms of dementia [162], and chemical dependency in pregnant women who suffer from anxiety [163]. TT is mainly practiced by nurses.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) suggests that the basis for disease results from the disruption in the flow of subtle energy known as qi or chi. TCM works with imbalance in the forces of yin (feminine principle) and yang (masculine principle). Practices such as Chinese herbs, meditation, massage and acupuncture aid healing by restoring yin-yang and Qi to homeostasis. This same subtle energy is known as ki in the Japanese Kamp system.

Trager Approach is a combination of massage, meditation and movement education. The head, torso, arms and legs are manipulated with rhythmic pull and rotation techniques in order to release tension, increase mobility and clear the mind. Movement awareness is emphasized to promote relaxation and ease neuromuscular pain. The Trager Approach has been shown to reduce symptoms of chronic headache along with reduction of headache medication [164].

Yoga is an ancient Indian practice uniting the spirit, the body and mind accomplished through physical postures, controlled breathing exercises, and meditation, often accompanied by healthy lifestyle and search for higher consciousness. Yoga is not a religion but a philosophy and way of life. Hatha yoga is most commonly practiced in North America and Europe, using a sequence of postures or asanas held statically or moved through dynamically in sequence, using the breath and hand positions for balance. Ashtanga yoga builds strength, stamina and flexibility, more commonly known in the United States as power yoga. Bikram yoga is practiced in rooms heated to 100 °F (39 °C). Profuse sweating loosens muscles and tendons while promoting inner cleansing. This type of yoga should only be practiced after consulting with a physician. Research has shown the practice of yoga can reduce pain, and increase energy, flexibility, and function during physical activity, as well as relieve stress and anxiety in breast cancer survivors[165]. It has also been shown to reduce pain associated disability [166], reduce stress [167], and as a complementary therapy for major psychiatric disorders [168].

As with pharmaceuticals, the effectiveness of these treatments varies with each patient. It is important to speak with a practitioner before scheduling an appointment to discuss your needs and ask questions about what to expect during your visit. Most of these therapies are practiced with the patient fully clothed except for shoes, socks and jewelry. Although human biofields have as yet been proved measurable with conventional scientific equipment, medical journals have published articles suggesting the existence of such fields [169-171]. Please consult with a physician to determine any health issues (recent surgeries or trauma) which may not allow for physical manipulation. Many EM treatments are not recommended for people who have multi-personality disorder or schizophrenia as manipulation of the biofield can sometimes exacerbate delusion, hallucination and bring out multiple personalities at once.

     

In Summary

The growth and maintenance of correct vibrational patterning of tissues and organs is the hallmark of good health. Current biomedical interventions ultimately attempt to restore the body’s optimal vibrational patterns. In order to accomplish this goal it is imperative to understand the key aspects of immune response with respect to cellular communication, as well as biochemical, bioelectrical, and bioelectromagnetic processes; and to develop technologies to facilitate the body’s use of this information during the repair and regeneration process.

References

  1. 1. Oschman J. 2000 Energy Medicine: The Scientific Basis.Churchill Livingstone,. Edinburgh
  2. 2. NCCAM, 2010 http://nccam.nih.gov/health/whatiscam/
  3. 3. Administration O. S.a H. 2012 Extremely Low Frequency (ELF) Radiation. http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/elfradiationretrieved February 15
  4. 4. Buonanno M. Toledo S. Azzam E. 2011 Increased frequency of spontaneous neoplastic transformation in progeny of bystander cells from cultures exposed to densely ionizing radiationPloS One. 6 6 e21540
  5. 5. Mobbs S. Muirhead C. Harrison J. 2011 Risks from ionising radiation: an HPA viewpoint paper for SafegroundsJ Radiol Prot 31 3 289 307
  6. 6. Organization W. H. 2012 Electromagnetic fields and public healthWHO fact sheet on electromagnetic hypersensitivity Retrieved February 15 http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs296/en/index.html
  7. 7. Feychting M. Ahlbom A. Kheifets L. 2005 EMF and health.Annu Rev Public Health 26 165 89
  8. 8. Tenforde T. Kaune W. 1987 Interaction of extremely low-frequency electric and magnetic fields with humans.Health Phys 53 585 606
  9. 9. Ng K. H. 2003 Non-Ionizing Radiations- Sources, Biological Effects, Emissions and Exposures. Proceedings of the International Conference on Non-Ionizing Radiation at UNITEN ICNIR2003 Electromagnetic Fields and Our Health October 20- 22http://www.who.int/peh-emf/meetings/archive/en/keynote3ng.pdf
  10. 10. Cadossi R. Emilia G. Torelli G. 1988a Lymphocytes and pulsing magnetic field. In A.A. Marino ed Modern Bioelectricity. Marcel Dekker, Inc: New York
  11. 11. Cadossi R. et al. 1988b Effect of low-frequency low-energy pulsing electromagnetic fields on mice undergoing bone marrow transplantation. Intl j of immunopath and pharm 1 57 62
  12. 12. Cossarizza A. et al. 1989a Extremely low-frequency pulsed electromagnetic fields increase cell proliferation in lymphocytes from young and aged subjects.Biochem Biophys Res Commun 160 692 698
  13. 13. Cossarizza A. et al. 1989b Extremely low-frequency pulsed electromagnetic fields increase interleukin-2 (IL-2) utilization in IL-2 receptor expressionin mitogen-stimulated human lymphocytes from old subjects. FEBS. 248 141-144
  14. 14. Cossarizza A. et al. 1989c DNA repair after irradiation in lymphocytes exposed to low-frequency pulsed eletromagnetic fields. Radiat Res 118 161 168
  15. 15. Mi Y. Sun C. Yao C. Xiong L. Wang S. Luo X. Hu L. 2007 Effect of steep pulsed electric fields on the immune response of tumor-bearing Wistar mice. Sheng Wu Yi Xue Gong Cheng Xue Za Zhi 24 2 253 256
  16. 16. Traitcheva N. Angelova P. Radeva M. Berg H. 2003 ELF fields and photooxidation yielding lethal effects on cancer cells. Bioelectromagnetics 148 150
  17. 17. Darouiche R. 2001 Device-associated infections: a macroproblem that starts with microadherenceClinical Infectious Disease 33 9 1567 1572
  18. 18. Harris L. Richards R. 2006 Staphylococci and implant surfaces: A review Injury S3 S14
  19. 19. Saakatian-Elahi M. Teyssou R. Vanhems P. 2008 Staphylococcus aureus, the major pathogen in orthopaedic and cardiac surgical site infections. Int J. Surg 6 3 238 245
  20. 20. Akan Z. Aksu B. Tulunay A. Bilsel S. Inhan-Garip A. 2010 Extremely low-frequency electromagnetic fields affect the immune response of monocyte-derived macrophages to pathogens. Bioelectromagnetics 603 612
  21. 21. Bassett A. Carpenter D. Ayrapetyan S. 1994 Therapeutic uses of electric and magnetic fields in orthopedics. Biological Effects of Electric and Magnetic Fields: Beneficial and Harmful Effects,. II(San Diego: Academic Press): 13 48
  22. 22. Trock D. 2000 Electromagnetic Fields and Magnets: Investigational Treatment for Musculoskeletal Disorders.Rheum Dis Clin North Am 26 1 51 62
  23. 23. O’Connor M. Bentall R. Monahan J. 1990 Emerging Electromagnetic Medicine conference proceedings. Springer-Verlag, New York
  24. 24. Stiller M. et al. 1992 A portable pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) device to enhance healing of recalcitrant venous ulcers: a double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial.Br J Dermatol 27 147 154
  25. 25. Hannan C. et al. 1994 Chemotherapy of Human Carcinoma Xenografts during Pulsed Magnetic Field Exposure. Anticancer Research 1521 1524
  26. 26. Traina G. et al. 1998 Use of Electric and Magnetic Stimulation in Orthopaedics and Traumatology: Consensus Conference. J Ortho Trauma 24 1 1 31
  27. 27. Morris C. Skalak T. 2007 Acute exposure to a moderate strength static magnetic field reduces edema formation in ratsAm J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 294 H50 H57
  28. 28. Mizushima Y. Akaoka I. Nishida Y. 1975 Effects of Magnetic Field on Inflammation. Experientia 1141 1412
  29. 29. Gromak G. Lacis G. 1987 Evaluations of the efficacy of using a constant magnetic field in treatments of patients with traumas. Electromagnetic Therapies of Injuries and Diseases of the Support-Motor Apparatus., (International Collection of Papers, Riga, Latvia: Riga Medical Institute) 88 95
  30. 30. Mertz P. Davis S. Eaglestein W. 1988 Pulsed electrical stimulation increases the rate of epithlialization in partial thickess wounds. Transactions of the 8th Annual Meeting ot the Bioelectrical Repair and Growth Society, (Washington, D.C) October 9 12
  31. 31. Ottani V. et al. 1988 Effects of pulsed extremely-low frequency magnetic fields on skin wounds in the rat. Bioelectromagnetics 53 62
  32. 32. Callaghan M. et al. 2007 Pulsed electromagnetic fields acclerate normal and diabetic wound healing by increasing endogenous FGF-2 release. Plast Reconstr Surg 121 1 130 141
  33. 33. Lubennikov F. Lazarev A. Golubtsov V. 1995 First Experience in Using a Whole-Body Magnetic Field Exposure in Treating Cancer Patients. Vopr Onkol 41 2 140 141
  34. 34. Rasouli J. Lekhraj R. White N. M. Flamm E. S. Pilla AA Strauch B. Casper D. 2012 Attenuation of interleukin-1beta by pulsed electromagnetic fields after traumatic brain injuryNeurosci Lett 519 1 4 8
  35. 35. Fini M. Torricelli P. Giavaresi G. Aldini N. N. Cavani F. Setti S. Nicolini A. Carpi A. Giardino R. 2008 Effect of pulsed electromagnetic field stimulation on knee cartilage, subchondral and epyphiseal trabecular bone of aged Dunkin Hartley guinea pigsBiomed Pharmacother 62 10 709 715
  36. 36. Weintraub M. Cole S. P. 2004 Pulsed magnetic field therapy in refractory neuropathic pain secondary to peripheral neuropathy: electrodiagnostic parameters--pilot study.Neurorehabil Neural Repair 18 1 42 46
  37. 37. Jasti A. Wetzel B. J. Aviles H. Vesper D. N. Nindl G. Johnson M. T. 2001 Effect of a wound healing electromagnetic field on inflammatory cytokine gene expression in rats.Biomed Sci Instrum 37 209 214
  38. 38. Rosenberg P. et al. 2002 Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Treatment of Comorbid Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Major Depression. The Journal of Neuropsychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences 270 276
  39. 39. Sutbeyaz S. et al. 2009 Low-frequency pulsed electromagnetic field therapy in fibromyalgia: a randomized, double-blind, sham-controlled clinical studyClin J Pain 25 8 722 728
  40. 40. Arendash G. Sanchez-Ramos J. Mori T. Mamcarz M. Lin X. Runfeldt M. Wang L. Zhang G. Sava V. Tan J. Cao C. 2010 Electromagnetic field treatment protects against and reverses cognitive impairment in Alzheimer’s disease mice. J Alzheimers Dis 19 191
  41. 41. Wagner T. Rushmore J. Eden U. Valero-Cabre A. 2009 Biophysical foundations underlying TMS: setting the stage for an effective use of neurostimulation in the cognitive neurosciences Cortex 1025 1034
  42. 42. Lee P. et al. 2006 Efficacy of pulsed electromagnetic therapy for chronic lower back pain: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study.J Int Med Res 34 2 160 167
  43. 43. Barbault A. Costa F. Bottger B. Munden R. Bomholt F. Kuster N. Pasche B. 2009 Amplitude-modulated electromagnetic fields for the treatment of cancer: discovery of tumor-specific frequencies and assessment of a novel therapeutic approachJ Exp Clin Cancer Res 28 51-60
  44. 44. Weintraub M. Cole S. 2008 A Randomized Controlled Trial of the Effects of a Combination of Static and Dynamic Fields on Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Amer Acad Pain Med,. 9(5): 493 504
  45. 45. Iurlov V. Eksareva T. Dolodarenko V. 1989 The Efficacy of the Use of Low-Frequency Electromagnetic Fields in Chronic Bronchitis. Voen Med Zh 3 35 36
  46. 46. Bukanovich O. et al. 1996 Sinusoidally-modulated currents in the therapy of chronic gastroduodenitis in children. Von Kurortol Fizioter Lech Fiz Kult 2 22 26
  47. 47. Smith A. Conneely K. Kilaru V. Mercer K. Weiss T. Bradley B. Tang Y. Gillespie C. Cubells J. Ressler K. 2011 Differential immune system DNA methylation and cytokine regulation in post-traumatic stress disorder.Am J Med Genet B Neuropsychiatr Genet 156B 6 700 708
  48. 48. Navaratil L. Hlavaty V. Landsingerova E. 1993 Possible Therapeutic Applications of Pulsed Magnetic Fields. Cas Lek Cesk 132 9 590 594
  49. 49. Lappin M. et al. 2003 Effects of a pulsed electromagnetic therapy on multiple sclerosis fatigue and quality of life: a double-blind, placebo controlled trial.Altern Ther Health Med 9 4 38 48
  50. 50. Sherman R. Acosta N. Robso L. 1999 Treatment of migraine headaches with pulsing electromagnetic fields: A double blind, placebo controlled study. Headache. 39 8 567 575
  51. 51. Sisken B. 1992 Nerve regeneration: implicaiton for clinincal application of electrical stimulation. Paper presented at the 1st World Congress for Electricity and Magnetism in Biology and Medicine, (Orlando, FL),June 14 19
  52. 52. Hillier-Kolarov V. Pekaric-Nadj N. 1992 PEMF Therapy as an Additional Therapy for Oral Diseases. EuroBioelectromag Assoc, (1st Congress) 23 25
  53. 53. Hulme J. et al. 2002 Electromagnetic Fields for the Treatment of Osteoarthritis.Cochrane Review, Cochrane Library, Oxford 1CD003523
  54. 54. Dallari D. 2009 Effects of pulsed electromagnetic stimulation on patients undergoing hip revision prostheses: A randomized prospective double-blind study Bioelectromagnetics 423 430
  55. 55. Shupak N. 2003 Therapeutic Uses of Pulsed Magnetic Field Exposure. Radio Science Bulletin 307 (December): 9 32
  56. 56. Gaafar E. et al. 2006 Stimulation and control of E. coli by using an extremely low-frequency magnetic field. Romanian J. Biophys 16 4 283 296
  57. 57. Jeran M. 1987 PEMF Stimulation of Skin Ulcers of Venous Origina in Humans: Preliminary Report of a Double Blind Study. Bioelectromagnetics 6 2 181 188
  58. 58. Binder A. 1984 Pulsed electromagnetic field therapy of persistent rotator cuff tendinitisLancet 8379 695 698
  59. 59. Thuilea C. Walzlb M. 2002 Evaluation of electromagnetic fields in the treatment of pain in patients with lumbar radiculopathy or the whiplash syndrome. NeuroRehabilitation 17 1 63 67
  60. 60. Man D. 1997 Effect of Permanent Magnetic Field on Postoperative Pain and Wound Healing in Plastic Surgery. Second World Congress for Electricity and Magnetism in Biology and Medicine
  61. 61. Levin M. 2009 Bioelectric mechanisms in regeneration: unique aspects and furture perspectives. Semin Cell Dev Biol 20 5 543 556
  62. 62. Levin M. 2012 Molecular bioelectricity in developmental biology: New tools and recent discoveries Bioessays 205 217
  63. 63. Cifra M. Fields J. Farhadi A. 2011 Electromagnetic cellular interactions Progress in Biophysics and Molecular Biology 223 246
  64. 64. Burr H. Northrop F. 1935 The electrodynamic theory of life Quarterly Review of Biology 10 3 322 333
  65. 65. Marino A. Becker R. 1977 Biological effects of extremely low frequency electric and magnetic fields: a review. Physiological Chemistry and Physics 131 147
  66. 66. Adey W. 1980 Frequency and power windowing in tissue interaction with weak electromagnetic fields. Proceedings of the IEEE 119 125
  67. 67. Robinson K. 1985 The responses of cells to electrical fields: a review. Journal of Cell Biology 101 6 2023 2027
  68. 68. Frey A. 1993 Electromagnetic field interactions with biological systemsFASB J7 2 272
  69. 69. Hong F. 1995 Magnetic field effects on biomolecules, cells and living organisms.Biosystems 36 3 187 229
  70. 70. Volpe P. 2003 Interactions of zero-frequency and oscillating magnetic fields with biostructures and biosystemsPhotochemical and Photobiological Sciences2 6 637 648
  71. 71. Funk R. Monsees T. 2006 Effects of electromagnetic fields on cells: physiological and therapeutical approaches and moleclular mechanisms of interaction. Cell Tissues Organs 182 2 59 78
  72. 72. Funk R. Monsees T. Ozkucur N. 2009 Electromagnetic effects: from cell biology to medicine.Progress in Histochemistry and Cytochemistry43 4 177 264
  73. 73. Foletti A. Lisi A. Ledda M. de Carlo F. Grimaldi S. 2009 Cellular ELF signals as a possible to in informative medicine.Electromag Biol Med28 1 71 79
  74. 74. Lisi A. Foletti A. Ledda M. Rosola E. Giuliani L. D’Emilia E. Grimaldi S. 2006 Extremely low frequency 7 Hz 100 uT electromagnetic radiation promotes differentiation in the human peithelial cell line HaCaT. Electromag Biol Med 25 4 269 280
  75. 75. Ventura C. Maioli M. Asara Y. santoni D. Mesirca P. Remondini D. Bersani F. 2005 Turning on stem cell cardiogenesis with extremely low frequency magnetic fields.FASB J19 155 7
  76. 76. Ross S. 2005 Combined DC and ELF magnetif fields can alter cell proliferation. Bioelectromagnetics 11 1 27 36
  77. 77. Tian F. Nakahara T. Yoshida M. Honda N. Hirose H. Miyakoshi J. 2002 Exposure to power frequency magnetic fields suppresses X-ray induced apoptosis transiently in Ku80-deficient xrs5 cellsBiochem Biophys Res Commun292 2 355 361
  78. 78. Tofani S. Barone D. Cintorino M. De Santi M. Ferrara A. Orlassino R. Ossola P. Peroglio F. Rolfo K. Ronchetto F. 2001 Static and elf magnetic fields induce tumor inhibition and apoptosis. Bioelectromagnetics 22 6 419 428
  79. 79. Santini M. Ferrante A. Rainaldi G. Indovina P. Indovina P. 2005 Extremely low frequency (ELF) magnetic fields andapoptosis: a review. Internat J Rad Biol 81 1 1 11
  80. 80. Takahashi K. Kaneki I. Date M. Fukada E. 1986 Effect of pulsing electromagnetic fields on DNA synthesis in mammalian cells in culture.Cellular and Molecular Life Sciences42 2 185 186
  81. 81. Litovitz T. Krause D. Montrose C. Mullins J. 1994 Temporally incoherent magnetic fields mitigate the response of biological systems to temporally cohreent magnetic fields. bioelectromagnetics 15 5 399 410
  82. 82. Goodman R. Bassett C. Henderson A. 1983 Pulsing electromagnetic fields induce cellular transcription.Science220 4603 1283
  83. 83. Goodman R. Henderson A. 1988 Exposure of salivary gland cells to low-frequency electromagnetic fields alters polypeptide synthesisProceed Nat Acad Sci USA85 11 3928
  84. 84. Sun W. Chiang H. Fu Y. Yu Y. Xie H. Lu D. 2001 Exposure to 50 Hz electromagnetic field induces the phosphorylation and activity of stress-activated protein kinase in cultures cells.Electromag Biol Med20 3 415 423
  85. 85. Wolf F. Torsello A. Tedesco B. Fasanella S. Boninsegna A. D’Ascenzo M. Grassi C. Azzena G. Cittadini A. 2005 50-Hz extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields enhance cell proliferation and DNA damage; possible involvement of redox mechanism. Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) Molecular Cell Research 1743 1-2 120 129
  86. 86. Regoli F. Gorbi S. Machella N. Tedesco S. Benedetti M. Bocchetti R. Notti A. Gattorini D. Piva F. Principato G. 2005 Pro-oxidant effects of extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields in the land snail Helix aspersa.Free Radical biol and med39 12 1620 1628
  87. 87. Golfert F. Hofer A. Thummler M. Bauer H. Funk R. 2001 Extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields and heat shock can increase microvesicle motility in astrocytes. Bioelectromagnetics 71 78
  88. 88. Zrimec A. Jerman I. Lahajnar G. 2002 Alternating electric fields stimulate ATP synthesis in Escherichia coli Cell Mol Biol Letters 7 1 172 175
  89. 89. Paksy K. Thuroczy G. Forgacs Z. Lazar P. Gaati I. 2000 Influence of sinusoidal 50-Hz magnetic field on cultured human ovarian granulosa cellsElectromag Biol Med19 1 91 97
  90. 90. Kula B. Sobczak A. Kuska R. 2000 Effects of static and ELF magnetic fields on free-radical processes in rat liver and kidneyElectromag Biol Med19 1 99 105
  91. 91. Milani M. Ballerini M. Ferraro L. Zabeo M. Barberis M. Cannone M. Faleri M. 2001 Magnetic field effects on human lumphocytes. Electromag Biol Med 20 1 81 106
  92. 92. Jandova A. Hurych J. Pokorny J. Coeek A. Trojan S. Nedbalova M. Dohnalova A. 2001 Effects of sinusoidal magnetic field on adherence inbition of leukocytes. Electromag Biol Med 20 3 397 413
  93. 93. Mc Leod K. Rubin C. T. Donahue H. J. 1995 Electromagnetic fields in bone repair and adaptationRadio Sci30 233 244
  94. 94. Otter M. Mc Leod K. J. Rubin C. T. 1998 Effects of electromagnetic fields in experimental fracture repair.Clin Orthop355 S90 104
  95. 95. Bersani F. Marinelli F. Ognibene A. Matteucci A. Cecchi S. Santi S. Squarzoni S. Maraldi N. M. 1997 Intramembrane protein distribution in cell cultures is affected by 50 Hz pulsed magnetic fields. Bioelectromagnetics 463 469
  96. 96. Gordon G. 2007 Designed electromagnetic pulsed therapy: clinical applications.J Cell Physiol212 3 579 582
  97. 97. Schild L. Plumeyer F. Reiser G. 2005 Ca(2+) rise within a narrow window of concentration prevents functional injury of mitochondria exposed to hypoxia/reoxygenation by increasing antioxidative defense. FEBS J 272 22 5844 5852
  98. 98. Ikehara T. Yamaguchi H. Hosokawa K. Houchi H. Park K. H. Minakuchi K. Kashimoto H. Kitamura M. Kinouchi Y. Yoshizaki K. Miyamoto H. 2005 Effects of a time-varying strong magnetic field on transient increase in Ca2+ release induced by cytosolic Ca2+ in cultured pheochromocytoma cellsBiochim Biophys Acta1724 8 16
  99. 99. Lieb R. Regelson W. West B. Jordan R. L. De Paola D. P. 1980 Effect of pulsed high frequency electromagnetic radiation on embryonic mouse tissue palate in vitro. J Dent Res 59 1649-1652
  100. 100. Mc Leod B. Liboff A. R. Smith S. D. 1992 Electromagnetic gating of ion channels.J Theor Biol158 15 31
  101. 101. Baureus Koch. C. Sommarin M. Persson B. R. Salford L. G. Eberhardt J. L. 2003 Interaction between weak low frequency magnetic fields and cell membranes. Bioelectromagnetics 395 402
  102. 102. Rosen A. 2003 Mechanism of action of moderate intensity static magnetic fields on biological systemsCell Biochem Biophys39 163 173
  103. 103. Ciombor D. Aaron R. K. Wang S. Simon B. 2003 Modification of osteoarthritis by pulsed electromagnetic field--a morphological study.Osteoarthritis Cartilage11 6 455 462
  104. 104. Gómez-Ochoa I. Gómez-Ochoa P. Gómez-Casal F. Cativiela E. Larrad-Mur L. 2011 Pulsed electromagnetic fields decrease proinflammatory cytokine secretion (IL-1β and TNF-α) on human fibroblast-like cell culture. Rheumatol Int 31 10 1283 1289
  105. 105. Benazzo F. Cadossi M. Cavani F. Fini M. Giavaresi G. Setti S. Cadossi R. Giardino R. 2008 Cartilage repair with osteochondral autografts in sheep: effect of biophysical stimulation with pulsed electromagnetic fieldsJ Orthop Res26 5 631 642
  106. 106. Markov M. Colbert A. P. 2001 Magnetic and electromagnetic field therapyJournal of Back Musculoskeletal Rehab15 17 29
  107. 107. Bassett A. 1994 Biological effects of elctrical and magnetic fields. Academic Press, Inc.,,. San Diego 13 48
  108. 108. Yost M. Liburdy R. P. 1992 Time-varying and static magnetic fields act in combination to alter calcium signal transduction in the lymphocyte. FEBS Letters 117 122
  109. 109. Selvam R. K. G. Narayana R. Raju K. Gangadharan A. Manohar B. Puvanakrishnan R. 2007 Low frequency and low intensity pulsed electromagnetic field exerts its anti-inflammatory effect through restoration of plasma membrane calcium ATPase activity. Life Sci 80 2403 2410
  110. 110. Balcavage W. Alvager T. Swez J. Goff C. W. Fox M. T. Abdullyava S. King M. W. 1996 A mechanism of action of extremely low frequency electromagnetic fields on biological systems.Biochem Biophys Res Commun222 374 378
  111. 111. Ubeda A. Enrique M. D. Pascual M. A. Parreno A. 1997 Hematological changes in rats exposed to weak electromagnetic fields. Life Sci 61 1651 1656
  112. 112. Nelson F. Zvirbulis R. Pilla A. 2010 The use of a specific pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) in treating early knee osteoarthritis Trans 56th Annual Orthopaedic Research Society Meeting,. New Orleans, LA 1034
  113. 113. Robinson A. Snyder-Mackler L. 2007 Clinical Electrophysiology: Electrotherapy and Electrophysiologic Testing (Third ed.). Lippincott Williams & Wilkins
  114. 114. Johnson M. Martinson M. 2006 Efficacy of electrical nerve stimulation for chronic musculoskeletal pain: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials Pain 130 1 157 165
  115. 115. Dubinsky R. Miyasaki J. 2010 Assessment: efficacy of transcutaneous electric nerve stimulation in the treatment of pain in neurologic disorders (an evidence-based review): report of the Therapeutics and Technology Assessment Subcommittee of the American Academy of Neurology Neurology 74 2 173 176
  116. 116. Hug K. Röösli M. 2012 Therapeutic effects of whole-body devices applying pulsed electromagnetic fields (PEMF): A systematic literature review Bioelectromagnetics 95 105
  117. 117. Benor D. 2002 Energy Medicine for the Internist.Medical Clinics of North America86 1 105 125
  118. 118. Connor M. Tau G. Schwartz G. 2006 Oscillation of Amplitude as Measured by an Extra Low Frequency Magnetic Field Meter as a Physical Measure of Intentionality. Toward a Science of Consciousness
  119. 119. Connor M. Flores M. Schwartz G. 2004 The use of Triaxial ELF Magnetic Field Meter measurements as a predictor of capacity in Energy Medicine Practitioners in a research setting. World Qi Gong Congress,
  120. 120. Hippocrates, 2012 The Hippocratic OathTranslated by Michael North: National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health, retrieved(Hippocratic oath, nlm.nih.gov).
  121. 121. Zimmerman J. 1990 Laying on of hands healing and therapeutic touch: a testable theory. J Bioelectromag Inst 2 8 17
  122. 122. Korenstein R. Levin A. 1990 Membrane fluctuations in erythrocytes are linked to mGATP-dependent dynamic assembly of the membrane skeleton. Biophysical Journal 773 737
  123. 123. Tuvia S. Almagor A. Bitler A. Levin S. Korenstein R. Yedgar S. 1997 Cell membrane fluctuation are regulated by medium macroviscosity: evidence for a metabolic driving force.Proceeding of National Academy of Science USA 94 5045 5049
  124. 124. Tuvia S. Moses A. Nathan G. Levin S. Korenstein R. 1999 adrenergic agonists regulate cell membrane fluctuations of human erythrocytes. Journal of physiology 516 3 781 792
  125. 125. Popescu G. Badizadegan K. Dasari R. Field M. 2006 Coherence properties of red blood cell membrane motions.Journal of Biomedical Optics Letters. 11 4 040503
  126. 126. Popescu G. Park-K Y. Dasari R. Badizadegan K. Feld M. 2007 Coherence properties of red blood cell membrane motions. Physical Review E 76 031902
  127. 127. Dirac P. 1930 The Principles of Quantum Mechanics.Clarendon Press, Oxford
  128. 128. Rubik B. 2002 The Biofield Hypothesis: its biophysical basis and role in medicineJ Altern Complem Medicine8 6 703 713
  129. 129. Hunt V. 2000 Infinite Mind: Science of the Human Vibrations of Consciousness.Malibu, CA: Malibu Publishing Co
  130. 130. Hsieh L. et al. 2006 Treatment of low back pain by acupressure and physical therapy: randomised controlled trialBMJ25 332 696 700
  131. 131. Pierce B. 2007 The use of biofield therapies in cancer care.Clin J Oncol Nurs11 2 253 258
  132. 132. Lin J. Chen Y. The role of acupuncture in cancer supportive care. Am J Chin Med 40012. 2219 229
  133. 133. Jones L. Othman M. Dowswell T. Alfirevic Z. Gates S. Newburn M. Jordan S. Lavender T. Neilson J. 2012 Pain management for women in labour: an overview of systematic reviews. Cochrane Database Syst Rev Mar 14;3CD009234.
  134. 134. Itoh K. Asai S. Ohyabu H. Ima,i K. Kitakoji H. 2012 Effects of trigger point acupuncture treatment on temporomandibular disorders: a preliminary randomized clinical trialJ Acupunct Meridian Stud5 2 57 62
  135. 135. Baumelou A. Liu B. Wang X. Nie G. 2011 Perspectives in clinical research of acupuncture on menopausal symptoms.Chin J Integr Med17 12 893 897
  136. 136. Ganguly G. 2011 Acupuncture may be helpful only for patients with comorbid insomnia secondary to chronic pain syndromesJ Clin Sleep Med7 4 411
  137. 137. Huang D. Huang G. Lu F. Stefan D. Andreas N. Robert G. 2011 Acupuncture for infertility: is it an effective therapy? Chin J Integr Med 17 5 386 395
  138. 138. Woodman J. Moore N. 2012 Evidence for the effectiveness of Alexander Technique lessons in medical and health-related conditions: a systematic review.Int J Clin Pract66 1 98 112
  139. 139. James L. 2008 Bowen Technique for back pain and other conditions. Positive Health. 143 38-39
  140. 140. Carter B. 2001 A pilot study to evaluate the effectiveness of Bowen technique in the management of clients with frozen shoulder.Complement Ther Med9 208 215
  141. 141. Stiles K. 2003 Bowtech. Massage Ther J 42 94 104
  142. 142. Shapiro G. 2004 The Bowen Technique for pain relief. Positive Health Phys 48 51
  143. 143. Slater V. 1995 Toward an understanding of energetic healing, Part 1: Energetic structures.J Holist Nurs13 3 209 224
  144. 144. Curtis P. Gaylord S. Park J. Faurot K. Coble R. Suchindran C. Coeytaux R. Wilkinson L. Mann J. 2011 Credibility of low-strength static magnet therapy as an attention control intervention for a randomized controlled study of CranioSacral therapy for migraine headachesJ Altern Complement Med17 8 711 721
  145. 145. Feinstein D. Eden D. 2008 Six pillars of energy medicine: clinical strengths of a complementary paradigm.Altern Ther Health Med14 1 44 54
  146. 146. Association f.c.e.p. 2012 http://www.energypsych.orgRetrieved January 4,.
  147. 147. Feinstein D. 2008a Energy psychology: a review of the preliminary evidence Psychotherapy theory, research, practice, training 45 2 199 213
  148. 148. Ullmann G. Williams H. Hussey J. Durstine J. Mc Clenaghan B. 2010 Effects of Feldenkrais exercises on balance, mobility, balance confidence, and gait performance in community-dwelling adults age 65 and olderJ Altern Complement Med16 1 97 105
  149. 149. Wardell D. Weymouth K. 2004 Review of studies of Healing Touch Journal of Nursing Scholarship Image 36 2 147 154
  150. 150. Krucoff M. 2005 Healing touch, music, relaxation a plus for heart surgery patients. The Lancet
  151. 151. Post-White J. Kinney M. Savik K. Gau J. Wilcox C. Lerner I. 2003 Therapeutic massage and healing touch improve symptoms in cancerIntegr Cancer Ther2 4 332 344
  152. 152. Terwee C. 2008 Succesful treatment of food allergy with Nambudripad’s Allergy Elimination Techniques (NAET) in a 3-year old: A case reportCases J1 1 166
  153. 153. Association, A.P.T., APTA. 2003 Standards for Practice Fourth Edition: 2
  154. 154. Mustian K. Roscoe J. Palesh O. Sprod L. Heckler C. Peppone L. Usuki K. Ling M. Brasacchio R. Morrow G. 2011 Polarity Therapy for Cancer-Related Fatigue in Patients With Breast Cancer Receiving Radiation Therapy: A Randomized Controlled Pilot StudyIntegr Cancer Ther10 1 27 37
  155. 155. Korn L. Logsdon R. Polissar N. Gomez-Beloz A. waters T. Tyser R. 2009 A Randomized Trial of a CAM Therapy for Stress Reduction in American Indian and Alaskan Native Family CaregiversThe Gerontologist32 1 10
  156. 156. Olson K. Hanson J. Michaud M. 2003 A Phase II Trial of Reiki for the Management of Pain in Advanced Cancer Patients. Journal of Pain and Symptom Management
  157. 157. Baldwin A. Wagers C. Schwartz G. 2008 Reiki improves heart rate homeostasis in laboratory ratsJ Altern Complement Med14 4 417 422
  158. 158. Lucas M. Olson K. 1997 Reiki To Manage Pain. Cancer Prevention and Control 1 108 113
  159. 159. James H. Castaneda L. Miller M. Findley T. 2009 Rolfing structural integration treatment of cervical spine dysfunctionJ Bodyw Mov Ther13 3 229 238
  160. 160. Denison B. 2004 Touch the pain away: new research on therapeutic touch and persons with fibromyalgia syndromeHolist Nurs Pract18 3 142 151
  161. 161. Gordon A. Merenstein J. Di Amico F. Hudgens D. 1998 The effects of therapeutic touch on patients with osteoarthritis of the knee.Journal of Family Practice47 271 277
  162. 162. Woodsa D. Beckb C. Sinha K. 2009 The Effect of Therapeutic Touch on Behavioral Symptoms and Cortisol in Persons with Dementia 16 3 181 189
  163. 163. Larden C. Palmer L. Janssen P. 2004 Therapeutic Touch Eases Anxiety for Pregnant, Chemically Dependent Women. Journal of Holistic Nursing 22 4 320 332
  164. 164. Foster K. Liskin J. Cen S. Abbott A. Armisen V. Globe D. Knox L. Mitchell M. Shtir C. Azen S. 2004 The Trager approach in the treatment of chronic headache: a pilot study. Altern Ther Health Med 10 5 40 46
  165. 165. Galantino M. Greene L. Archetto B. Baumgartner M. Hassall P. Murphy J. Umstetter J. Desai K. 2012 A qualitative exploration of the impact of yoga on breast cancer survivors with aromatase inhibitor-associated arthralgiasExplore8 1 40 47
  166. 166. Büssing A. Ostermann T. Lüdtke R. Michalsen A. 2012 Effects of yoga interventions on pain and pain-associated disability: a meta-analysisJ Pain13 1 1 9
  167. 167. White L. 2012 Reducing stress in school-age girls through mindful yogaJ Pediatr Health Care26 1 45 56
  168. 168. Cabral P. Meyer H. Ames D. 2011 Effectiveness of yoga therapy as a complementary treatment for major psychiatric disorders: a meta-analysis.Prim Care Companion CNS Disord13 4 8
  169. 169. Anderson J. Taylor A. 2011 Effects of healing touch in clinical practice: a systematic review of randomized clinical trials.J Holist Nurs29 3 221 228
  170. 170. Hart L. Freel M. Haylock P. Lutgendorf S. 2011 The use of healing touch in integrative oncologyClin J Oncol Nurs15 5 519 525
  171. 171. Mills P. Jain S. 2010 Biofield therapies and psychoneuroimmunology Brain Behav Immun 24 8 1229 1230

Written By

Christina L. Ross

Submitted: 26 April 2012 Published: 18 December 2012