Orthopedic Specialists

Water Goes Way Beyond Your Thirst

June 7, 2018

Woman Drinking WaterWe have all heard by the time you are thirsty, you are on your way to dehydration. We know we are supposed to drink anywhere from 8 to 13 glasses of water per day for normal hydration.  The amount of water in the average adult human body averages  57 – 60%. Water is essential for every system of the body including your joints and muscles.  

Your joints are surrounded by synovial fluid which cushions the joint motion reducing friction and helps ease the impact of the movement.  When you don’t drink enough water, the synovial fluid begins to dry out and can cause discomfort and pain in the joints, especially the knee joints.  Without the appropriate amount of hydration, your joints will continue to ache.  As you increase your water intake and your level of hydration increases, your joint pain will slowly decrease.  

Likewise your muscle health can be affected by dehydration.  Muscles are actually made of 15-20% water.  They need to be lubricated to function effectively.  When muscles begin to become dehydrated, they are not able to contract correctly and leave you feeling fatigued and unable to perform your activities at peak level.  Sports drinks and electrolytes can help, but it is essential that you drink enough water.  

Yet another great reason to make a habit of drinking plenty of water on a daily basis, to keep all of the body well hydrated, and to help prevent aches and pains in your joints and muscles from dehydration. 
 

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