What to know about copper bracelet healing

Copper bracelet healing has grown in popularity as a nonpharmaceutical way of relieving discomfort from stiff, sore joints. While you wear the bracelet, your skin absorbs tiny particles of copper.

Copper is found in your bone and muscle tissue. It is especially helpful in the making of collagen, nerve function, and energy production.

Many people believe that absorbing additional copper through the skin can help regrow lost joint cartilage. However, limited scientific evidence exists to support this claim, so further research is still needed.

Current research

The research into copper bracelet healing is limited, but the studies that do exist suggest that it is ineffective at treating the symptoms of arthritis, even though many people believe it can help.

A 2013 study of 70 people with painful rheumatoid arthritis concluded that copper bracelets, which the study referred to as “folklore medicine,” did not appear to have any meaningful therapeutic effect on arthritis symptoms, beyond that of a placebo.

An even older study from 2009 explored the effects of copper bracelets on 45 people with osteoarthritis and reported that the bracelets were ineffective for pain management and decreasing symptoms like stiffness.

Yet these are only two small, older studies, so further research on copper bracelets is still needed to prove whether they may be effective. 

Possible benefits 

Many people believe that copper bracelets may help improve several health conditions, though no significant scientific evidence supports this.

Examples of these conditions include: 

Arthritis

Due to the unique properties of copper, it’s said to support and stabilize the joints and muscles, relieving stiffness and improving flexibility. It’s also said to have anti-inflammatory and circulation-boosting effects on the body, which can both greatly benefit people with arthritis. 

The Arthritis Foundation reports that by increasing blood circulation, the soft tissue surrounding the joints (called the synovial membrane) gets a steady supply of oxygen and nutrients needed for protection.

Dermatological skin conditions

Some people say the antimicrobial properties can help improve the symptoms of many skin conditions, such as eczema, psoriasis, and acne.

Cardiovascular disease

People low in copper are said to have high blood pressure, which gives them an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

This is why some people believe that by adding copper to your body by wearing a copper bracelet, you may be able to reduce blood pressure and the risk of cardiovascular conditions. 

However, there is very limited research to support this idea.

Anemia

Iron deficiency affects billions of people worldwide and is the leading cause of anemia, a condition where there are not enough healthy red blood cells in your body.

Some scientific evidence suggests that copper and iron work together to support the body’s functioning, including the production of red blood cells.

This is why some people believe that absorbing additional copper through the bracelets can help prevent anemia.

What are the potential side effects of wearing copper bracelets?

There aren’t many side effects of wearing copper bracelets, but you should keep various risk factors in mind if you’re thinking of wearing one.

These include potential allergic reactions to the copper, where the skin underneath the bracelet becomes red and inflamed. 

Another more severe but less common risk is copper toxicity, where there is too much copper in the body. According to 2023 research, studies show that this can cause oxidative stress.

There is a chance that your body may take in too much of the metal from a copper bracelet.

Consider speaking with a doctor if you notice any side effects after wearing a copper bracelet. They can help identify whether you need to stop wearing it.

Other treatment options for arthritis 

Other methods beyond copper bracelet healing can help with arthritis. These include both pharmaceutical and nonpharmaceutical options.

The most effective treatment to address pain and inflammation from arthritis is nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). NSAIDS can help reduce inflammation and pain in people with arthritis.

Examples include:

• naproxen (Aleve)
• acetaminophen (Tylenol)
• ibuprofen (Advil)

Steroidal drugs such as prednisolone (Orapred) can also support the immune system and greatly reduce the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, according to a 2022 study.

Fish oil supplements may also help. They contain a good source of omega-3 essential fatty acids, which can increase bone strength.

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Summary

Many people believe copper bracelets may be able to help treat health conditions such as arthritis due to their inflammatory properties.

Yet there is not enough scientific evidence to support their effectiveness, so further research is needed.

If you have a health condition such as arthritis that affects your day-to-day life, consider speaking with a healthcare professional. They can help suggest a treatment plan that may help.

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