How to Pass Nicotine Blood Tests Required Before Surgery

Understanding the Link Between Menopause and Joint Discomfort

Many women begin to experience increased joint aches and pains as they enter perimenopause and menopause. The question is - why? This guide explains the connection between menopause and joint discomfort and what can be done to find relief.

Menopausal Hormone Changes

Shifting estrogen levels are most frequently blamed when middle-aged women suddenly notice soreness in areas like hands, knees, hips and feet. This key sex hormone helps regulate bone metabolism and inflammation.

As the ovaries slow estrogen production leading up to a woman's last period, this depletion allows inflammation levels to rise unchecked. The drop also negatively impacts calcium levels and bone density.

Increased Joint Inflammation

Researchers now recognize that estrogen plays an immune-suppressing role by reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines. Cytokines are proteins released by cells that signal localized joint inflammation and damage responses to occur.

With depleted estrogen, cytokines ramp up which attacks the tissue lining in joints. This leads to widespread stiffness, swelling and osteoarthritis-like discomfort.

Key Joints Impacted by Menopausal Changes

Women in perimenopause and menopause most frequently report increased pain and decreased mobility in these key joint areas:

Hands

Creaky, inflamed finger joints makes grasping objects painfully difficult. Tendonitis-like symptoms in the hands also appear like redness, numbness or tingling and loss of strength.

Knees

The two knee caps act as hinges that support body weight but dont fully regenerate lost cartilage. Cytokine inflammatory chemicals attack knee tissue, resulting in swelling, immobility and stiffness.

Hips

Where the top of the fem

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.