Therapeutic Magnetic Fields in Oncology: A Systematic Review of Safety and Supportive Clinical Use
Year: 2026
Type: review
Study design: Systematic Review
Abstract: Therapeutic magnetic fields are widely used in rehabilitation and physiotherapy for musculoskeletal and neurological conditions. However, their use in oncological patients has historically been approached with caution and is often considered contraindicated, despite limited clinical evidence supporting this concern. A systematic review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. PubMed/MEDLINE was searched for studies evaluating therapeutic magnetic fields in oncological populations. Studies were classified according to predefined research questions addressing oncological safety, supportive care during cancer treatment, and management of comorbidities. Study selection, data extraction, and qualitative synthesis were performed. A total of 3,841 records were identified. Only one randomized controlled trial specifically assessed oncological safety outcomes and found no evidence of disease progression, reduced survival, or impaired treatment response associated with magnetic field exposure. A larger body of heterogeneous evidence evaluated magnetic fields as supportive interventions during oncological treatments, particularly for chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy, quality of life, and symptom burden. These studies reported improvements in neurotoxicity, patient-reported outcomes, and treatment tolerability, although methodological limitations were common. Evidence regarding pain management and rehabilitation in oncological remission was predominantly observational. Current evidence does not support the assumption that therapeutic magnetic fields are inherently harmful in oncological patients. While data on oncological safety remain limited, available studies do not indicate adverse oncological outcomes. Magnetic field therapy may represent a feasible supportive intervention for symptom management and rehabilitation in selected oncological populations. However, well-designed prospective trials are required to better define safety profiles, clinical efficacy, and appropriate indications.
Source: Cureus
Authors: Saverio Colonna, Fabio Casacci
Language: English
Subfield: Biophysics
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7125175239