Yes, theres some truth to the folk belief about copper relieving arthritic pain. Several studies show that taking copper pills or injections, or even wearing a bracelet or anklet made from copper, actually help ease rheumatoid arthritis for some people.
With the bracelet and anklet, the copper is absorbed through the skin. In some studies, significant numbers of patients with arthritis said the bracelet had therapeutic value.
Copper may work because it has a unique anti-inflammatory, or anti-arthritic, effect. Persons who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis experience a biochemical breakdown in the linings of the joints that the body is unable to repair by itself. The copper has been shown to help repair the tissue in damaged joints. It has also been shown to decrease swelling, morning stiffness and fever, and may increase mobility. In fact, adding copper to aspirin may make aspirin more effective in relieving arthritic pain.
Many people are unaware that copper is an essential element that our bodies need for normal metabolism of all tissue. In other words, copper is just as important as the essential fats, amino acids, and enzymes that our bodies require to function properly. But copper should not be used excessively because too much can cause serious diseases of the liver, so check with your doctor. Your physician can tell you the best way to use copper to relieve arthritis pain.
Robin Westen is Thirdages medical reporter. Check for her daily updates. She is the author of Ten Days to Detox: How to look and feel a decade younger (Bantam/Dell)
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