Created by James and Dianne Hermans, of Cleveland, the magnet represents years of research and study and has been reported to considerably reduce or eliminate pain in 80 per cent of cases.

A physiotherapist, Dianne first became acquainted with the possibility of the magnet through American Robert Holcomb, who was trialling a similar device at the Vanderbilt Medical University in Nashville. His device was simply four magnets co-joined.

Studies showed that the use of the quadrapolar magnet, as opposed to a bipolar magnet, had a positive effect on sensitised nerve sites.

"You need a physics degree to understand it at this point. But essentially the charged particles of the magnet interrupt the nerve signal over sensitised or over-excited nerves. The interaction between the poles introduces field gradients," James said.

Since developing their own prototype, success had been remarkable when used by Dianne at her clinic in Manly, James said.

"The worst thing that can happen is nothing. But why wouldn't you try something that is safe, drug-free and non invasive and no risk? This can change the way pain is treated," he said.

Tests had also been carried out on fibromyalgia patients, again with a degree of success.

"The magnets never wear out and, if they hit the right spot, can be life changing."

Dianne's interest started when she had injuries from a car accident. She started using the magnets for her neck and it worked for her. She now uses it as an adjunct to normal physiotherapy treatments.

"Essentially her use prompted us to develop and improve the model. Necessity became the mother of invention.

"We use the magnets as a take home modality. Often people just need to hire them for the duration of the episode of pain. Ideally, I would like to see them used like ice - as the first port of call - something in the first aid kit," Dianne said.

"Our children always ask for the magnets if something is hurting. It's just about education," she said.