Evidence for a dose-dependent effect of pulsed magnetic fields on pain processing.

Author: Robertson JA, Juen N, Théberge J, Weller J, Drost DJ, Prato FS, Thomas AW.
Affiliation:
Imaging Program, Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada.
Conference/Journal: Neurosci Lett.
Date published: 2010 Sep 27
Other: Volume ID: 482 , Issue ID: 2 , Pages: 160-2 , Word Count: 103


Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) was used to investigate the dose-response relationship (sham, 100, 200, 1000 microT) between a pulsed extremely low frequency magnetic field (ELFMF) and acute thermal pain on the dominant right hand. Forty-seven participants were recruited, and pulsed ELFMF was applied through the MRI gradient system using a novel technique. Regions of interest (ROIs) matching those of previous studies were examined for a potential dose response. Significant correlations between applied field strength and change in BOLD activity were found in the anterior cingulate and the ipsilateral insula, indicating that there might be either a dose response or a threshold effect of the ELFMF.

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