Joint pain can make everyday activities hard. Several treatments, from home care to medical care, may help.
What causes menopausal joint pain?
Many things can contribute. Joint pain is common around menopause and may affect more than half of women at this stage of life. As we age, normal wear and tear on the joints can lead to pain.
Menopause also changes hormone levels, and those changes may add to joint pain. Other health conditions, such as arthritis or osteoporosis, can play a part as well.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms depend on the cause. In general, menopausal joint pain is a dull ache in one or more joints. Joints may feel stiff in the morning or after activity. Some people also have swelling, redness or warmth in a joint.
How is menopausal joint pain treated?
Treatment depends on the cause. It helps to know whether the pain comes from aging, from hormone changes or from another condition such as arthritis. Options range from medicine to lifestyle changes.
Home steps that may help include:
- Taking an over-the-counter pain medicine such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, as directed on the label
- Applying ice or heat to the sore joint
- Soaking in a warm bath
- Exercising regularly with low-impact activities
- Losing weight if you are overweight
- Wearing comfortable, supportive shoes
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if joint pain gets in the way of your daily activities or does not get better with home care. Get medical attention right away if joint pain comes with fever or swelling. Our team can help find the cause of your pain and talk with you about a treatment plan.
Talk to our Frisco team
If joint pain is affecting your day, our Frisco team can help. Learn more about our joint pain care, read about arthritis, or book an appointment. You can also contact us with questions.