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Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge
The Bone & Joint Clinic Staff • July 24, 2024
Hydration and Bone Health: A Crucial Link for Baton Rouge Residents

Hydration is probably not the first thing that comes to mind when you think about bone health. However, it is a critical component of maintaining strong bones. Bone is made up of about 35% to 45% minerals, primarily calcium and phosphate, around 40% collagen and proteins, and 15% to 25% water, which allow bones to maintain a rigid yet flexible structure. Without the proper amount of water, bones can become brittle and break more easily. Staying adequately hydrated, especially in Louisiana's hot, humid climate, can keep bones strong and resilient.



How Does Water Support Healthy Bones?

Proper hydration plays a role in maintaining optimal bone mineral density by aiding in the transport and absorption of calcium and other essential minerals throughout the body. When the body is well-hydrated, it can more effectively absorb calcium from the digestive system into the bloodstream and deliver it to the bones, keeping them strong. Chronic dehydration can disrupt the body's pH levels, prompting the body to leach calcium from the bones to neutralize the acidity. As the calcium levels in bones decrease, it can lead to lower bone density, weak, brittle bones, and an increased risk of fractures.


Dehydration can also significantly hinder the body's ability to generate new bone through bone remodeling, a process that involves the continuous breakdown of old bone tissue and the subsequent formation of new, healthy bone. Water is required to support the metabolic activity of the cells responsible for creating new bone. Without adequate hydration, the efficiency of these cells is compromised, slowing down the remodeling process and potentially leading to weaker bones.


Water is essential for the production of synovial fluid, a lubricant that cushions the joints and reduces joint pain. Adequate hydration ensures that synovial fluid retains its shock-absorbing properties, effectively reducing friction between bones, preserving cartilage, and preventing bone wear and tear. This function becomes especially important during physical activities that place significant stress on the bones and joints, enhancing their protection against potential damage.


Tips to Maintain Strong Bones Through Hydration

Staying hydrated helps support the strength and integrity of our bones. To ensure proper hydration, it is recommended that you drink an adequate amount of water throughout the day. The exact amount may vary depending on factors such as age, weight, and activity level, but a general guideline is to aim for at least eight glasses of water per day. Here are some tips to help you stay hydrated.

  • Drink water regularly throughout your day, even if you are not thirsty. Keep a water bottle with you for easy access, no matter where you are.
  • Increase your hydration by eating foods with high water content, like watermelon, cucumbers, and lettuce.
  • Limit your intake of caffeinated or alcoholic beverages as they can have a diuretic effect, increasing urine production and potentially leading to dehydration.
  • Use technology, such as a hydration tracking app or phone reminders, to track your fluid intake and increase your consumption.


Incorporating hydration into your daily routine not only strengthens bones but also boosts overall health by supporting vital bodily functions. Ensuring adequate water intake is a simple yet powerful way to promote skeletal health and reduce the risk of bone-related issues as we age. If you're concerned about your bone health, schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists. They can provide guidance on optimizing bone health and offer personalized advice tailored to your needs.

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The Signs and Symptoms of a Torn Meniscus

The Signs and Symptoms of a Torn Meniscus

By The Bone & Joint Clinic Staff • February 11, 2025
Damage to the meniscus, which serves as a cushion between the thigh and shin bones, can cause severe pain and impair movement.
Understanding the Most Common Types of Arthritis and Managing It at Different Life Stages

Understanding the Most Common Types of Arthritis and Managing It at Different Life Stages

By The Bone & Joint Clinic Staff • January 31, 2025
While it is often associated with aging, arthritis can affect individuals at any stage of life. Understanding the different types of arthritis and how to manage them at various life stages is key to maintaining a high quality of life.

Bone & Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge Physician Practice Transition – Effective April 1, 2025

By Bone and Joint Clinic Staff • January 30, 2025
BATON ROUGE, LA, January 30, 2025 – Effective April 1, 2025, four distinguished orthopedic surgeons from The Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge will transition to Baton Rouge Orthopedic Clinic (BROC), continuing their commitment to providing high-quality orthopedic care. The physicians joining BROC are: 1. Joseph "Jeb" Broyles, MD – Specializes in joint replacement surgery, knee arthroscopy, and cartilage regeneration. 2. Arthur "Art" Hess, MD – Specializes in trauma, hip, knee, and shoulder reconstruction, and total joint replacement surgery. 3. Mat hew "Matt" Mazoch, M D – Specializes in shoulder and knee surgery. 4. Alan Schroeder, MD – Specializes in sports medicine and shoulder surgery. Beginning April 1, 2025, these physicians will operate under BROC's umbrella while continuing to see patients at The Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge's current location, 7301 Hennessy Blvd. Eventually, the doctors plan to transition to BROC's campus on Bluebonnet Blvd. The estimated timeline for that move is Summer/Fall 2025. In addition, Dr. Patrick Hall will be transitioning to his own practice, Hall Podiatry, that will continue to provide quality podiatric care to patients. Dr. Hall will continue to practice at 7301 Hennessy Blvd. until May/June 2025. After that date, patients may see him at a new nearby location. Dr. Zachary Rohr and Christopher Belleau will also transition their practice to a new location effective March 31, 2025. We will update our patients once those details are finalized. Dr. Gerard Murtagh of The Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge will be retiring effective March 2025. Dr. Murtagh has been a vital part of the clinic since 1988 and has significantly contributed to its success. We thank Dr. Murtagh for his many years of service to the patients of Bone & Joint Clinic. Patients are encouraged to continue scheduling appointments at The Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge using the current process for the foreseeable future. To ensure a seamless transition, The Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge will provide detailed information to patients in the coming weeks, including the secure transfer of medical records and continuity of care. The health and well-being of patients remain the top priority, and The Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge, BROC, and Hall Podiatry are working together to make this transition as smooth as possible while maintaining uninterrupted care. For more information or to schedule an appointment, patients can contact The Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge at 225-766-0050 or by visiting bjcbr.com . Patients can also reach BROC at 225-924-2424 or by visiting brortho.com .
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