Evidence for a dose-dependent effect of pulsed magnetic fields on pain processing.
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.
Robertson
John A
JA
Imaging Program, Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada.
Juen
Nicole
N
Théberge
Jean
J
Weller
Julie
J
Drost
Dick J
DJ
Prato
Frank S
FS
Thomas
Alex W
AW
D000208:Acute Disease; D000328:Adult; D001921:Brain / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000528:radiation effects*; D001931:Brain Mapping; D004307:Dose-Response Relationship, Radiation; D004574:Electromagnetic Fields; D006801:Humans; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D010146:Pain / Q000503:physiopathology*; D058748:Pain Perception; D013696:Temperature; D055815:Young Adult