An external magnetic actuator for use in adjusting an implantable medical device having a magnetically actuatable rotatable portion, such as an intramedullary (EVI) lengthening nail is disclosed. The actuator may include a magnet having opposite major surfaces representing opposite poles of the magnet. The magnet may be contained within an actuator body having first and second handles coupled to first and second opposing side walls of the housing. The actuator body may also include one or more projections operable to prevent first and/or second walls of the actuator body from lying flat against an external planar surface. Also provided are various kits and systems that include a disclosed external magnetic actuator and methods for using the disclosed external magnetic actuator.
