The rare therapy used by NBA icon O'Neal to get Sciver-Brunt fit

Nat Sciver-Brunt's calf muscle is threatening to become 2026's version of David Beckham's metatarsal.England's captain and best player is in a race to be fit for next week's T20 World Cup semi-finals, after retiring out during their second match of the tournament.The latest on the situation is that the 33-year-old is continuing with her rehabilitation and England are hopeful she will be available again in the tournament.

Sciver-Brunt has been using many well-known techniques to aid her recovery – ice, compression, physio treatment and oxygen therapy – but also one never used before by the England women's cricket team.She has been undergoing Magnetic Resonance Therapy, an uncommon treatment which uses electromagnetic energy to encourage cell healing.Sometimes referred to as MBST and more regularly used to treat arthritis, magnetic resonance therapy requires the patient to place the injured muscle into a machine similar to a small MRI scanner.

Run records & miserly Aussies - what we've learned from T20 World CupSciver-Brunt targets semi-final return after positive scanHow does Magnetic Resonance Therapy work?While the treatment is uncommon, legendary former NBA player Shaquille O'Neal has spoken about using similar treatments.Sciver-Brunt has been using the machine twice a day at home and at the team hotel."

I've not seen much of her to be honest because she's been off doing everything possible," her wife and former England team-mate, Katherine, told BBC Test Match Special.Nick Worth, a sports and performance physiotherapist who has worked with elite athletes for 30 years, said while evidence is limited there have been examples of positive results."The electromagnetic field goes around the injured area and they have treatment for about an hour seven or eight times," Worth told BBC Sport."

The electromagnetic energy has an impact on the cells that promotes healing in the cells naturally, rather than it needing any medication or drugs."The main thing is it is a safe option.