Joint pain – What can I do about it?

Your joints feel stiff, warm and swollen… Your joints hurt, especially in the morning. Do I really have joint pain?

Yes, joint pain is more common during the menopause than you might think. As this pain often occurs in women shortly before the menopause, the term «menopausal arthritis» is used to describe this particularly unpleasant symptom.

What is joint pain and why does it occur?

Joint pain is a common symptom that many women suffer from during the menopause. Joint pain manifests itself in the form of discomfort or pain in the joints, particularly in the knees, hips, shoulders and hands.

But why does this pain arise and what are the underlying causes?

During the menopause, the female body undergoes a number of changes due to hormonal changes. In particular, the drop in oestrogen levels plays an important role in the development of joint problems. Oestrogen is a hormone that plays a key role in regulating bone metabolism and joint health. It promotes the production of synovial fluid, which acts as a lubricant and keeps the joints supple. When oestrogen levels drop during the menopause, the production of this synovial fluid also decreases, which can lead to increased friction and wear and tear on the joints.

In addition, hormonal changes can also influence inflammatory processes in the body. Low oestrogen levels can lead to an increase in inflammatory messengers, which can increase joint inflammation. This can contribute to pre-existing joint diseases such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis worsening during the menopause.

Another factor that can contribute to joint pain is the weight gain that many women experience during the menopause. Excess weight puts additional strain on the joints and can increase pressure on the knees, hips and spine, which in turn can lead to pain and stiffness.

In addition to hormonal changes and weight gain, other factors such as genetic predisposition, lifestyle and previous joint injuries can also increase the risk of joint problems during the menopause.

Overall, it is important to understand that joint pain during the menopause is common and can have many causes. By understanding these causes and taking targeted action, we can help to alleviate joint pain and improve quality of life during this phase of life.

What can you do about it?

1. exercise: Regular exercise can help to strengthen the joints and keep them flexible. Try to incorporate exercises that involve both endurance and strength training, such as walking, swimming or yoga.

2. a healthy diet: A balanced diet with plenty of fruit, vegetables, wholegrain products and omega-3 fatty acids can reduce inflammation in the body and support the joints.

3. weight management: Maintaining a healthy weight is important to reduce stress on the joints. A balanced diet combined with regular exercise can help control your weight.

4. supplements: Some women find relief by taking supplements such as glucosamine or omega-3 fatty acids.

5. stress management: Stress can increase inflammation in the body and therefore worsen joint pain. Find ways to reduce stress, be it through meditation, breathing exercises or relaxation techniques.

Joint pain doesn’t have to dominate your life during the menopause. If you take care of your health, exercise regularly, eat a balanced diet and reduce stress, you can support your joints and alleviate discomfort.

We hope this information will help you to better understand the onset of the menopause and take practical steps to deal with it.

If you need personal advice or support on your journey through the menopause, contact The Women Circle here.

In our next issue, again on Saturday at 9 a.m., we will cover further aspects of the menopause and female health. Stay informed and feel good in this special phase of your life.