While Menopause is commonly associated with symptoms like hot flashes and mood swings, joint pain is another minor concern many women experience during this transitional phase. Studies have shown that around 40-60% of women going through Menopause report joint pain or stiffness. The severity and frequency of joint pain can vary from mild to debilitating, affecting some women’s daily activities and quality of life.

Addressing Menopause-related joint pain is crucial to ensure women can maintain an active lifestyle as they age. In this article, we will discuss Menopause and joint pain, including the causes of joint pain during Menopause, and provide valuable insights into managing these symptoms. 

Symptoms of menopausal joint pain

Menopausal joint pain can be dull, sharp, and sudden. Additionally, you may experience:

  • Decreased range of motion
  • Soreness
  • Swelling or joint stiffness
  • A feeling of warmth or heat
  • Worsening of pain after movement or exercise

Causes of menopausal joint pain

The causes of menopausal joint pain can involve various factors, varying from hormones to psychological factors. 

Here are some common reasons discussed in detail, 

Hormonal changes

Estrogen has a protective effect on joints by reducing inflammation and promoting the production of joint fluids. 

The levels of Estrogen and Progesterone decline during Menopause, which can lead to Estrogen becoming less effective after Menopause, causing joint stiffness and pain. This joint pain and swelling often affect the small joints in the hands and feet. However, other joints, such as the knees, neck, and elbows, can also be affected, causing stiffness and reduced movement.

Did you know?
Low levels of Estrogen after Menopause also result in more rapid bone loss. A woman loses nearly 1 to 2 percent bone density every year and 25 percent in total after Menopause. 

Osteoarthritis

An increased risk of developing Osteoarthritis (OA) accompanies Menopause. The fluctuating Estrogen levels during Menopause contribute to the development or progression of this disease. It occurs when the protective cartilage cushions the joints and wears down over time. 

Osteoarthritis is characterized by inflammation, pain, and stiffness. It affects all articular tissues and might even lead to joint failure. This can also explain why OA is more common in women than in men.

Inflammatory changes

Increased inflammation markers, such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and interleukin-6 (IL-6), accompany Menopause and joint pain. Inflammatory arthritis can affect joint tissues and cause pain and swelling.

Weight gain

Most women experience weight gain around Menopause due to hormonal changes like levels of Estrogen and decreased metabolism. Excess weight stresses the joints, especially the knees, and hips, causing joint pain and discomfort.

Reduced physical activity

Hormonal changes, combined with menopausal symptoms like fatigue, mood swings, and hot flashes, can lead to decreased physical activity. Lack of exercise and movement may contribute to weight gain, joint stiffness, muscle weakness, and exacerbating menopausal joint pain.

Genetic factors

Genetic variants contribute to approximately 50% of the variation in age at Menopause. Some studies suggest that genetic factors can also affect menopausal joint pain. Some gene variations are associated with an increased risk of joint pain and osteoporosis during Menopause.

Psychological factors

Menopause is a significant life transition accompanied by stress, anxiety, and mood changes. Psychological factors like mood changes and depression can influence pain perception and contribute to the experience of joint pain during Menopause.

Managing Menopause joint pain

Menopausal joint pain, a common symptom experienced by many women during the transition, can significantly impact daily activities and overall quality of life. Fortunately, several practical approaches exist to manage and alleviate this discomfort, ranging from simple self-care techniques to more advanced medical interventions.

Here are various ways to manage menopausal joint pains:

Exercise

A woman doing exercise
A woman doing exercise

Regular physical activity is vital for managing Menopause and joint pain. Maintenance of muscle, bone mass, and strength are among the most important benefits of exercise. Engaging in low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, cycling, and yoga may strengthen the muscles around the joints, improve flexibility, and reduce pain. 

Consult a physical therapist to design a suitable exercise plan for your needs and limitations.

Weight management

Maintaining a healthy weight can alleviate joint pressure and reduce joint pain. Focus on a balanced diet of fruits, whole grains, vegetables, and lean proteins. Limit processed foods, sugary snacks, and high-fat meals. 

Higher waist circumference is a risk factor for cardiovascular and metabolic disease in menopausal women. Significant weight loss can effectively manage obesity-related cardiometabolic risk factors and menopausal symptoms.

If necessary, consult a registered dietitian for guidance. You can also read this guide on the Menopause diet to learn more about the nutritional needs and suitable foods. 

Medications

Pain-relieving creams, gels, or patches containing ingredients like capsaicin, menthol, or salicylates can provide localized relief. Clinical studies in people with arthritis have shown that non-aspirin NSAIDs are comparable to aspirin in reducing pain, joint swelling, and the duration of morning stiffness and improving strength and mobility. 

You can buy Naprosyn 500 from WowRXPharmacy to seek fast relief at affordable prices. 

Read and follow the instructions on the product and consult a healthcare expert if you have any concerns.

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is shown to have some benefits in alleviating arthralgia associated with menopausal transition, which refers to pain or discomfort in one or more body joints. However, HRT has a few potential risks and side effects. Hence, it should be taken only under professional supervision.

Warning
Certain types of HRT can increase your risk of Breast Cancer. You should consult with a healthcare professional before seeking an HRT.

Complementary therapies

Some women find relief from menopausal joint pain through complementary therapies like acupuncture, massage, or chiropractic treatments. These therapies help reduce pain, improve joint mobility, and promote relaxation. 

Consult with qualified practitioners experienced in treating menopausal joint pain.

Stress management

Stress can exacerbate pain perception. Stress-reducing activities like meditation, deep breathing exercises, or mindfulness practices may help alleviate menopausal symptoms, including joint pain. Additionally, seeking support from friends, family, or support groups can provide emotional well-being during this transitional phase.

Conclusion

Menopausal joint pain is a common and significant concern for many women during the Menopause transition. The causes of joint pain during Menopause are multifactorial, including hormonal changes, Osteoarthritis, inflammatory changes, weight gain, reduced physical activity, genetic factors, and psychological factors. 

Regular exercise, weight management, over-the-counter pain relievers, topical treatments, HRT, complementary therapies, and stress management can relieve joint pain. By addressing menopausal joint pain, women can maintain an active and fulfilling lifestyle during this transitional phase.

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