For those individuals wearing copper for arthritis this is exactly what they want to see. Probably the most authoritative publication on the subject is Dr. Helmar Dollwet's book, The Copper Bracelet and Arthritis, 1981 Vantage Press. In it Dr. Dollwet explains that copper is an essential element of an enzyme necessary for the production and regeneration of the cartilage lining the bone surfaces. Copper (and zinc) he explains, are also essential to Super-oxide Dismutase (SOD) which cleans up superoxide radicals that can be destructive to human body tissues. Evidence has been found through scientific research as to the breakdown and absorption of copper compounds through the skin. Read 'The Copper Bracelet and Arthritis' by Dr. Helmar Dollwet for more information. Pharmacies all over Europe sell copper bracelets for the inflammation of joints. The American Arthritis Foundation calls copper bracelets an "unproven remedy".