Copper bracelets are "know to heal arthritis," or at least that's what many of their manufacturers are telling you. It is true that this element has certain qualities that could be beneficial to an arthritis sufferer. Researchers have acknowledged its effect on the joints and connective tissue for years, but do these results actually work when the copper is merely placed on the skin?
Benefits
There's no doubt about the benefit of copper in our systems. It helps the body oxidize glucose and aids in both the functioning of our brains and the operation of our nerves. It's a necessary ingredient in the creation of red blood cells. It can act as an anti-inflammatory, helping reduce pain in the joints and connective tissues, which may be where the idea behind copper bracelets originates. However, all of these benefits are from copper ingested by way of food, not from wearing a piece of metal jewelry.
Function
People who subscribe to this method of healing believe that prolonged contact between skin and copper allows the element to be absorb into your system, where it can relieve any pain or discomfort of the joints due to arthritis. Although there is a great deal of research on the benefits of copper in the diet, the efficacy of copper bracelets has never been proven.
Theories/Speculation
Back in 1976, a limited study was done on the therapeutic value of copper bracelets on arthritis. Many of the subjects claimed they found a significant amount of relief from the practice. However, actual clinical testing of products similar to the ones used in that initial study showed no difference in pain relief between true copper bracelets and imitations.
Considerations
Donning a copper bracelet is very unlikely to hurt you, unless, of course, you have an allergy to this particular metal. If you really want to try this sort of approach to healing, buy an inexpensive piece. As long as a bracelet is made of copper, it should do the trick. There is no such thing as copper made exclusively for arthritis relief. Copper is copper, no matter how much it costs.
Warning
Some supposedly copper bracelets may include a certain amount of lead, which isn't an ideal metal to wear next to your skin.
Tags: copper bracelets, joints connective