Efficacy of transabdominal magnetic field therapy on constipation severity in chronic functional constipation: A randomized controlled trial

Objectives: To evaluate transabdominal magnetic field therapy (MFT) for constipation severity and related outcomes in adults with chronic functional constipation. Methodology: This multicenter, three-arm randomized controlled trial was conducted at Istanbul Medipol University and Istanbul Gedik University, Türkiye, from February 2019 to April 2026. Adults meeting Rome III criteria were randomized to MFT, sham, or standard care (SC) (n=75); 60 completers formed the per-protocol analysis (20/group). MFT was administered at 25-Hz and 30-Gauss for 30 minutes, twice weekly for eight weeks. Sham replicated the procedure without active stimulation; SC received standardized constipation management education. The primary outcome was the Constipation Severity Instrument (CSI) total score. Secondary outcomes assessed bowel habits, defecation time, stool form, and constipation-related quality of life (PAC-QOL). Results: MFT reduced CSI more than SC (mean difference in change [MD], -20.55; 95% CI, -24.97 to -16.13) and sham (MD, -14.40; 95% CI, -18.82 to -9.98; both p<0.001). MFT also improved complete spontaneous bowel movements versus SC (ratio of rate ratios [RRR], 1.57; 95% CI, 1.20-2.05) and sham (RRR, 2.39; 95% CI, 1.87-3.07), and reduced PAC-QOL versus SC (MD, -21.25; 95% CI, -24.09 to -18.41) and sham (MD, -11.60; 95% CI, -14.44 to -8.76; all p≤0.001). No adverse events were observed or reported among completers. Conclusions: Transabdominal MFT was associated with greater short-term improvements in constipation severity, bowel function, and constipation-related quality of life than sham treatment and standard care. Future studies should establish optimal stimulation parameters and evaluate long-term effectiveness and safety.