Hydration and Joint Health – What Most People Miss

You’ve probably heard it before: drink more water. But did you know staying hydrated isn’t just good for your skin or digestion—it’s vital for your joints and spine?
I’m Dr. Mark Elliot with Advanced Spine & Joint Care in Vista, and today we’re looking at hydration from a chiropractic angle.
Here’s the thing: your joints rely on fluid to function properly. The discs in your spine, for example, act like shock absorbers—and they’re made up mostly of water. When you’re dehydrated, those discs can’t do their job. They lose flexibility, become less cushioned, and that increases your risk for stiffness, pain, or even injury.
Same goes for cartilage. That smooth tissue that allows your joints to move without grinding—yep, it needs proper hydration to stay healthy and elastic.
In the summer heat—or during any kind of physical activity—you lose water faster through sweat and respiration. If you’re not actively replenishing it, your body starts pulling water from wherever it can, including your muscles and joints. That’s when problems start showing up.
So how much water do you need? A good rule of thumb: half your body weight in ounces each day. And if you’re active or outdoors? You’ll need even more.
Other tips:
Add electrolytes if you’re sweating a lot—they help with fluid balance.

Eat hydrating foods like watermelon, cucumber, or oranges.

And don’t wait until you’re thirsty—by then, you’re already behind.

Chiropractic care keeps your spine moving well. But hydration? That’s what keeps your spine feeling well. Keep both in balance, and you’ll move through summer strong.