25 Nov Menopause And Joint Pain: How Are They Related?

Menopause And Joint Pain: How Are They Related And How To Treat It

Menopause is a natural part of a woman’s life, and it can bring about a variety of physical and emotional changes. One of the most common symptoms of menopause is joint pain. Joint pain is a common symptom of menopause, but other factors can also cause it. In this blog post, we’ll explore the connection between menopause and joint pain, and how to manage it.

What Causes Joint Pain During Menopause?

This is usually caused by a decrease in oestrogen levels. Oestrogen is a hormone that acts as an anti-inflammatory and helps to reduce inflammation. It helps to keep the joints lubricated and healthy. When Oestrogen levels drop during menopause, the joints can become dry and inflamed, leading to joint pain, discomfort or stiffness. Old injuries may begin to ache as well as other joints including the neck, shoulders, elbows hands and knees.

Other factors can also contribute to joint pain. These include age-related wear and tear, obesity, and certain medical conditions such as arthritis.

Management

There are several ways to manage joint pain. These include:

1. Exercise: Regular exercise can help to strengthen the muscles around the joints and reduce pain. Low-impact activities such as swimming, walking, and yoga are particularly beneficial.

2. Diet: Eating a healthy, balanced diet can help to reduce inflammation and joint pain. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish, nuts, and seeds, can help to reduce inflammation.

3. Supplements: Certain supplements, such as glucosamine and chondroitin, can help to reduce joint pain. Vitamin D is often low in individuals living n the UK due to lack of sunlight, especially during the winter months. Vitamin D is made by the skin being exposed to sunlight and is essential for strong bones. Lack of vitamin D may lead to bone weakness and aching bones and joints. Supplementing with vitamin D can therefore help with joint pain due to menopause.

4. Hormone Replacement Therapy: Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can help to restore Oestrogen levels and reduce joint pain. It is a treatment prescribed in a clinic after a detailed history is taken and blood tests are performed. Hormones including oestrogen, are identical in structure to hormones produced in the human body to replenish levels which have fallen in the body. It is very effective at treating joint pain.

5. Pain Medication: Over-the-counter pain medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help to reduce joint pain.

Conclusion

Menopause and joint pain are closely related, as a decrease in Oestrogen levels can lead to joint pain. Fortunately, there are several ways to manage it, including exercise, diet, supplements, HRT, and pain medication. If you’re experiencing this as a symptom, talk to your doctor about the best treatment options for you. Alternatively book an appointment and we will help you to feel yourself again free from joint pain.

We were delighted to be asked by Beauty Daily By Clarins to contribute to the very important discussion about menopausal joint pain. To read the full article click on the link below.

https://beautydaily.clarins.co.uk/wellness/menopause/menopause-joint-pain/