Understanding Menopausal Muscle and Joint Pain: Causes, Symptoms, and Relief Strategies

Menopausal muscle and joint pain, often overlooked or attributed to aging, may stem from declining estrogen levels, a condition Dr. Vonda Wright terms “musculoskeletal syndrome of menopause,” reports The New York Times (Danielle Friedman, Nov. 20, 2024). Symptoms, including joint pain, frozen shoulder, loss of muscle mass, and worsening osteoarthritis, affect over half of menopausal women. Declining estrogen, which combats inflammation and supports musculoskeletal health, is believed to be a key factor.

Dr. Wright recommends lifestyle changes such as an anti-inflammatory Mediterranean diet, increased protein and calcium intake, and vitamin D3 supplementation. Regular resistance training, aerobic exercise, and balance-focused activities like yoga or Pilates can also help preserve muscle, bone strength, and prevent falls.

While estrogen hormone therapy shows promise in relieving symptoms, experts, including Dr. Stephanie Faubion, caution that more data is needed to confirm its efficacy. By naming this phenomenon, Dr. Wright hopes to validate women’s experiences, improve diagnosis, and inspire further research into these debilitating yet under-recognised symptoms.

Read the full article in NY Times.