Revolutionizing Aging: Researchers Pioneer Magnetic Therapy to Combat Physical Declines
Researchers from the National University of Singapore (NUS) have developed an innovative magnetic muscle therapy that may reverse aging-related physical declines such as reduced mobility, muscle strength loss, and increased body fat. The treatment, known as pulsed electromagnetic field (PEMF) therapy, was tested in a community study on 101 participants aged 38 to 91.
Findings from the 12-week trial showed significant improvements in mobility and body composition, especially among older participants. Pain perception was also reduced after three months of magnetic muscle therapy.
The study was conducted by NUS Institute for Health Innovation & Technology (iHealthtech), NUS start-up QuantumTX, and Healthy Longevity Translational Research Program under the NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine.
Stimulating Muscles
The trial involved weekly 10-minute sessions of the BIXEPS device, invented by NUS researchers in 2019, which emits very low levels of PEMF. The device stimulates leg muscles, triggering cell activity akin to exercising. Previous studies demonstrated systemic improvements, including better whole-body metabolism and blood lipid profile changes, following magnetic muscle therapy.
According to Associate Professor Alfredo Franco-Obregón, a Principal Investigator with NUS iHealthtech and co-founder of QuantumTX, 85% of trial participants experienced PEMF-associated improvements, regardless of age. He stated that the therapy could offer therapeutic value comparable to exercise for older individuals.
Assoc Prof Alfredo Franco-Obregón (standing, right), Principal Investigator at NUS Institute for Health Innovation & Technology, and Ms Sharanya Venugobal (standing, left), Clinical Research Coordinator at QuantumTX, with 79-year-old BIXEPS user Mr George Teo.
Data on participants' body composition was collected weekly during the study. Results showed that 72% reported improved muscle maintenance and decreased total and visceral fat levels after eight weeks. Additionally, 85% showed improvements in functional mobility after 12 weeks, primarily older participants.
May Reduce Frailty in Older Adults
This therapy could provide a valuable addition to traditional geriatric interventions aimed at reducing frailty and metabolic disorders in older adults. Notably, visceral fat, linked to metabolic disorders like diabetes, was reduced through this therapy - a significant breakthrough for regions like Southeast Asia, where individuals retain visceral fat more tenaciously despite exercise.
Future research will involve controlled clinical trials in the U.S. and Hong Kong to further validate the therapy's benefits. A senior-focused study is also underway in Singapore to evaluate how this technology can improve function and alleviate chronic pains in older adults.
With the growing aging population, ways to maintain muscle strength and mobility and improve the overall quality of life.
Muscles and Aging - Planning Vital
The progressive decline of muscle strength and mobility is a typical symptom of aging, which can considerably increase the risk of requiring long-term care. This age-related deterioration affects a person's daily activities and overall quality of life. It contributes to an increased vulnerability to falls and injuries.
Ultimately, these factors can lead to a heightened need for supportive care services, burdening individuals' finances and families. It's vital, therefore, to prioritize preventative measures and effective interventions to mitigate these potential health and financial risks.
While there can be measures to improve overall health and mobility, aging itself cannot be stopped. A body will decline, and chronic health problems, including dementia, will require many people to need help with daily living activities or supervision due to dementia.
Being proactive with your health and retirement planning is vital for enjoying a fulfilling future retirement. Many people look at adding Long-Term Care Insurance to ensure quality care access and ease family burden and stress. Most people start planning in their 40s or 50s.