Hydration & Your Spine: Why Water Matters More Than You Think

With temperatures soaring across the UK and the forecast promising more sunshine, it's a great time to talk about one of the most overlooked essentials for your spinal health: hydration.

We all know that drinking enough water is important, but did you know your spine is especially dependent on it? Your spine is made up of 24 vertebrae, separated by discs that act as shock absorbers. These discs are mostly made of water — and they don’t have a direct blood supply. That means they rely on the fluid you drink to stay plump, cushioned, and functional. When you're dehydrated, your discs can’t do their job properly. Over time, that can lead to stiffness, reduced mobility, and increased wear and tear.

But there’s more. Hydration also affects the muscles and connective tissue that support your spine. Dehydrated muscles fatigue faster and become more prone to tightness or spasms. You may notice this especially if you spend long hours at a desk, behind the wheel, or juggling a busy day of meetings, childcare, and chores.

So how much is enough? A good rule of thumb in this weather is to drink little and often, aiming for around 6–8 glasses of water a day, more if you're sweating or active. Herbal teas, fruit-infused water, and foods like cucumber, watermelon, and leafy greens all help too.

If you’re under care at Aceso, staying hydrated supports the work we’re doing together. When your tissues are well-hydrated, they respond better to adjustments and hold them more effectively — meaning more comfort and progress for you between visits.

Whether you're optimising your performance in a high-pressure career or trying to keep the wheels turning at home, don’t underestimate the power of water. Your spine will thank you.

The content of this blog is for educational purposes and is not intended to offer personal medical advice. You should seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it.