Water and Arthritis

Water does many things for our body. But for someone suffering from arthritis, one of the most important tasks H20 has is lubing up joints for maximum and pain-free movement. Arthritis, meaning "join inflammation" is the general term for many sub-forms of the disease. There is rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis as well as gout, but these are just a few of the about 100 forms. About 43 millions Americans suffer from one form or another.

Arthritis, as well as osteoporosis, is linked with fluoride in public drinking water systems. A more debilitating disease with similar symptoms of arthritis is skeletal fluorosis. A reverse osmosis filter installed in the home and drinking bottled water when away from home is one way to ensure not being exposed to this element.

Since the arthritis pain and stiffness is a result of joints not being cushioned, water can aid in this by helping to lubricate and provide padding for these areas. Also, this is a result of increased friction between the cartilage surfaces. When the joints move, a suction pulls water from the bone marrow to the joint cavity-- if there is available water. If there is not enough water, they joints can't glide as they should. So, an increased water intake and being hydrated can keep that water supply there-- and reduce some of the pain. Also, with gout, it can also remove uric acid and other toxins. So in essence, in areas where there is pain, it is almost as if the body is letting you know there is a drought,

Like in osteoporosis, water exercise is also a very effective means of both reducing pain and staying in shape. When one has arthritis, they usually do not want to move their joints more than they have to. However, if staying in one place too long, the ligaments can tighten causing more pain. Regular exercise can help with flexibility and strength, as well as get the body in shape to do everyday tasks. Just being in the water allows for muscles to relax. And, exercising in the water is gentle, and the water supports the limbs and muscles- relieving them some stress. Also, water creates resistance which builds muscle strength.

Another cause for arthritis can actually be calcium deposits in the water. This inorganic mineral, lime, can cause debilitating effects on joints. For more on this, see our related article on inorganic minerals.