Some examples of theories and beliefs about using magnets to treat pain are listed below. These range from theories proposed by scientific researchers to claims made by magnet manufacturers. It is important to note that while the results for some of the findings from the scientific studies have been intriguing, none of the theories or claims below has been conclusively proven. For the following, summaries of research from peer-reviewed medical and scientific journals appear in Appendix I:

• Static magnets might change how cells function.
  
  
• Magnets might alter or restore the equilibrium (balance) between cell death and growth.
  
  
• Because it contains iron, blood might act as a conductor of magnetic energy. Static magnets might increase the flow of blood and, therefore, increase the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to tissues.
  
  
• Weak pulsed electromagnets might affect how nerve cells respond to pain.
  
  
• Pulsed electromagnets might change the brain's perception of pain.
  
  
• Electromagnets might affect the production of white blood cells involved in fighting infection and inflammation.

Here are two other theories and beliefs:

• Magnets might increase the temperature of the area of the body being treated.
  
  
• "Magnetizing" or "re-magnetizing" drinking water or other beverages might allow them to hydrate the body better and flush out more "toxins" than ordinary drinking water.