The gauss rating is the maximum amount of magnetic energy that a magnet can hold at its core. Thicker magnets with a large diameter produce a stronger, deeper penetrating magnetic field than a smaller and thinner magnet with the same gauss rating. The overall strength (and effectiveness) of a magnet is determined by its gauss rating, its thickness, diameter and spacing. Lengths of use The magnets need not be handled directly or touch the skin. It can be inside a bag, inside some wraps with the right poles facing the body. Strong magnets (those that can lift a kilo or more) may be used for one hour daily. Small or weak magnets may be left in place all day. Serious infections For serious infections, strong pain or cancerous tumors, even powerful magnets can remain in the body as long as they seem to be beneficial. There is growing popularity in the use of magnet therapy in such countries as Australia, Russia, Germany and many other European countries. Lately, western medicine had used magnetic energy for diagnosis with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and as an alternative method of accelerating the healing of bone fractures. After a week of therapy, 68% of the participants with the strong magnet reported relief, compared to 27% in the control group. However, there were no significant improvements in the objective evaluations of the condition. The study suggested that magnets may reduce pain but did not alter the actual inflammation. There are several studies conducted to figure out the effects or benefits of magnetic therapy. Magnet therapy can help those who are suffering from arthritis. Through the use of magnets, the pain can be treated by increasing the circulation of the blood. Actually, it is not only arthritis that magnets can heal. Aside from using a tape or bandage to keep the magnet in place, there are also magnetic products which can be used daily, like shoe insoles, head inserts, mattress, and magnetic jewelries like bracelet, necklaces, rings, and earrings. There are also therapists who would use hand-held magnets and move them around the body or specific areas that need treatment.