Copper bracelets are currently riding the crest of popularity in Asia. The bracelets' manufacturers claim that discomfort from all types of arthritis is relieved by wearing the copper band next to the skin. Even more remarkable, those not suffering form arthritis have been sporting the bracelet in hopes of reducing everyday pressures and tensions. Wong Woon Sing , a consultant physician at Hong Kong's Queen Mary Hospital with a specialty in rheumatology, says the bracelet might work for some patients because of its placebo effect.