Is There Science Behind Copper Healing Attributes?

Is There Any Science Behind the Healing Benefits of Copper in Clothing or Braces?

Copper has been used forever in various forms of healing and has gained popularity in today’s “healthy lifestyle” products like compression sleeves, socks, gloves, and braces. The claim is that copper infused fabrics can help reduce pain, improve circulation, and even speed up healing. Is there any science to back these claims, or is it just a marketing spiel? Dr. Aaron Workman, a skilled chiropractor at one of the highest rated car accident medical care facilities in Kentucky, talks about copper, the thought behind its benefits and any research available for clarity.

Copper in the Body:
Copper is an essential mineral that the body needs for various functions. It helps form red blood cells, supports immune function, and plays a role in maintaining healthy nerves and blood vessels. Additionally, copper has antimicrobial properties, which means it can kill or slow the growth of bacteria, fungi, and viruses. This antimicrobial property is one of the reasons copper has been added into fabrics.

Copper in Compression Garments:
The idea behind copper-infused clothing is to combine the benefits of compression with the healing properties of copper. Compression items are already widely used to improve circulation and reduce swelling. Adding copper to these items is marketed to enhance their effectiveness by promoting healing and reducing pain.

The science supporting copper’s ability to help with pain or improve healing in clothing is not promising.

1. A study published in JVS-VL in March 2019 states, “Copper-infused compression stockings did not improve symptoms in patients with chronic venous insufficiency and lipodermatosclerosis compared with noncopper stockings.”
2. An article in Sports Medicine published March 2013 looked at the effects of compression garments on exercise-induced muscle damage. This review concluded that while compression garments may aid in recovery, the addition of copper does not make this work any better.

Another popular claim about copper in braces and clothing is that it can reduce inflammation and joint pain, particularly in conditions like arthritis. This is derived from copper’s role as a trace element that helps in the production of anti-inflammatory enzymes. However, science has yet to show that wearing copper-infused clothing significantly increases copper absorption through the skin. Most of the body’s copper intake comes from food, such as nuts, seeds, and seafood.

1. The study, “The Effect of Copper Bracelets on Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Randomized, Controlled Trial,” published in PLOS ONE in 2013 found wearing a copper wrist strap did not alleviate rheumatoid arthritis symptoms.
2. Two different articles on the Arthritis Foundations website, in 2020 and 2021, both discuss the lack of evidence and the ineffectiveness of copper easing arthritis pain.

You cannot underestimate the power of positive thought, and because of this some will note more relief from copper infused products. It is likely a placebo effect which can be accounted for in the research. The healing benefits of copper in clothing and braces will not be as foolproof as some marketing suggests. In the future it is possible this could change, but you should not rely on them as the only solution for pain, inflammation reduction or muscle recovery. It would be wiser to spend the extra money on higher quality compression fabric. It is also important to do your own research on product claims so you can come to more informed decisions. If you have tried everything else and you continue to suffer with pain, it is time to follow up with a healthcare professional.

— This article is written by Aaron Workman, DC, one of the members of Chambers Medical Group’s team of car accident chiropractors who offer a variety of treatments and therapies ranging from diagnostic testing to various soft tissue therapies for car accidents and injuries in Kentucky.

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