Do others also experience painful joints and muscles? How do you manage them with exercises (or other approaches?) Please share what you’ve tried and what works for you.
Jannine – New York
Community comments
144Real experiences shared by the community, from the original discussion to today.
Join the discussion
Share what worked for you — comments are reviewed before they appear.
Sharon topham5 years ago
Me too I’m taking calcium and vitamin D but still ache I struggled to exercise as they are too painful x
MariJ5 years ago
I have found Tumeric helpful. Gentle exercise helps too
Erica5 years ago
Mine got so much better after going keto. The carbs and sugar ( and nuts such as peanuts and almonds, for me ) were the cause of all my inflammation. My pcos got ridiculously better. It’s nice not being doubled over in pain from cysts rupturing or in pain from doing mild up and down stairs.
Linda5 years ago
So nice to hear that you got better with keto. I have just started- and was wondering , did you get any worsening of you symtoms at first, with keto? My muscle/joint pain and sleep issues seems to have worsened since i started. I have read about the «ketoflue» but this is more in the joints for me.
Lisa5 years ago
I am trying this now. Been doing it for 2 weeks. I haven’t noticed much yet, but fingers crossed!
Helen5 years ago
Watching this thread with interest as joint pain is my most troublesome symptom. Fingers, wrists, elbows, hips, knees, neck. I used to swim several times a week and that was good but not since Covid. I do a daily HIIT workout when I can with multiple substitutions when things hurt. I walk a bit but hips have prevented more than half an hour lately. I use Diclofenac gel and paracetamol.
Judith5 years ago
Strange as I am struggling with walking for anything longer than 30 mins too. My left side, hips are so painful afterwards for hours
KCreplying to Judith5 years ago
You know, your pain could also be related to your shoes. I had hip pain and a podiatrist discovered that one of my legs is slightly shorter than the other. He had me fitted for orthotics, one of which has a tiny lift for the shorter leg, and recommended some good athletic shoes. Since then, my hip pain after walking (or running before I had to give that up) only flares up when my shoes need replacing.
Yvie5 years ago
I use resistance bands for my shoulder pain. Keep your elbow in line with your shoulder and with the resistance band around your wrist and secured to a doorknob, move your wrist away and back. I do 10-15 reps a day
MarLo5 years ago
My chiropractor told me to do this for my shoulder pain. I’ve just started, I’m hoping it will help soon.
Melody5 years ago
Hi Jannine. Oh yes! Especially bad at night. Exercise is good and Vitamin D really helps. Spray is best. It takes a little while to work but persevere and I hope things improve. Thing is no one tells you about all these symptoms and my GP was useless - so thank goodness for these apps! Have a good day.
Lax5 years ago
What’s the spray please??
Mandyreplying to Lax5 years ago
The brand I use is called “better you” it’s really good
Martinareplying to Lax5 years ago
Hi! I believe she’s referring to liquid magnesium spray. It helps with soreness and aches and is most absorbable via the skin. You spray it directly on the sore areas on a regular basis. In my experience it helps a lot!
Lisareplying to Martina5 years ago
I use the magnesium spray at night as needed for leg cramps and restless legs. It really works!
Shazreplying to Lisa4 years ago
Hi have you tried almonds for restless legs, I had it so bad my legs were nearly spasming like an epileptic secure,, I started to eat plain almond flakes, or whole almonds at night, and that was a number of years ago. No more restless legs, I have also told a friend who like me is in her 60’s , and it worked for her. Even the tables she received from her doctor did not work as well.
Kraftyreplying to Shaz4 years ago
Oh my, I am going to try this TONIGHT. I can’t stand the pain anymore. I’ll check in with this after a few nights!!!
Kellie5 years ago
I find that my pain makes me want to stay still, but if I do it gets worse. I have recently moved internationally and basically quite exercising. This was the worst because I could not imagine starting again. So, I have started very small with yoga. I started with ten minutes of yoga everyday. Soon I could not wait to do my yoga every morning because it made me feel so much better. Now it and walking every other day as well and I hope to add to that. The yoga is the thing that has really helped with my pain.
Jen5 years ago
I wish I had the bit at the end where I say “ and then I did this and all was well” I’m 53 and moved to LA from NYC where I used to do yoga 4 times a week- run up subway stairs like a stair master- walk at minimum 5 to 10 miles daily just going to work and back and all the stuff in between. My moods/ anxiety and physical symptoms started in NYC. I wrote them off as temp. Since moving to LA with my husband I stopped all exercise eat like crap am depressed / anxious a lot. I know what I “should” do but it all seems to overwhelming and now due to all the pain I tell myself I “can’t” and grab a pint of ice cream.
Alysonreplying to Jen5 years ago
I’m 47 and used to commute to London for work. I recognise your pre-lifestyle habits (walking to/at work/ running-up the stairs etc) and onset of symptoms (moods, anxiety, pain, eating crap). But until now I’d not considered that it might be the next stage of my menopause (so thankyou!). Unwittingly, I’ve found that by simply remembering to ‘move’ (could be just cleaning, hoovering, walking round the block, swimming occasionally); improving my diet (by opting for non-dairy, organic, vegetarian dishes when I can); and writing in a reflective diary every few days (recording thoughts and feelings), helps. My hip/knee joint pain eases; my moods are tracked and my gut flora is replenished with healthy bacteria instead of sugary crap (aiding digestion and reducing inflammation). I get the motivation thing (I really do) so it’s about doing a bit (not a lot), creating a plan that works for you and seeing small improvements that brings a sense of control back and stops the downward cycle physically and mentally.
Katiereplying to Jen4 years ago
I just want to put this out there because I am having such a hard time lately just getting through the day. I just turned 53 and I feel Ike a different person. I do not recognize the person I am slowly becoming. My doctor says that my hormone levels are fine - but I am moody, tired, unmotivated - basically a shell of the person I once was. I have joint pain too (which is why I read this thread) I feel like the more women my age I talk to about this, the more I think that this is some kind of epidemic for middle aged women! Anyone else feel this way?
Reneereplying to Jen4 years ago
I am 61.2 yrs and you are telling my story!! I need to get back on track !! 168 5’2 menopausal since having my last child at 40 20 yrs plus Also in Recovery 20 plus years
Josie-Annereplying to Renee4 years ago
I understand all of what everyone is saying and can relate to it, I have fibromyalgia and CFS, post menopausal as I had my hysterectomy at the age of 35, I’ve got abnormal hormones progesterone and testosterone, the doctor can’t give me any oestrogen, just being diagnosed with osteopenia which is the start of thinning of the bones, I broke both elbows twice, both scaphoids, right index finger, had a piece of bone taken out of my right ulnar bone then a plate and screws put in then taken out a year later due to nerve pain, had a breakdown 4 years ago due to losing someone very dear to me then my partner and I split up, had a prolapsed disc which was putting pressure on the root of the sciatic nerve left side in 2018, just recently being diagnosed with Barrett’s disease, had a neurological overload last may which was like a stroke and had to learn to walk again, neurologist said that my brain was like a battery running on empty as I’ve overdone things for quite a while and news years Eve I ripped the muscles in between my left rib cage and have been on a cocktail of drugs to numb the pain, each year there always something, and now I get a letter to say that they are going to take biopsies off my osoephagus to see what stage it’s at and on my birthday, to say I’ve had a run of bad luck is an understatement, I used to walk for miles, work out at the gym, always active and now I find it hard having the will power to get up each morning.
KimCreplying to Jen4 years ago
I understand where you’re coming from and I only would visit NYC when my son was attending NYU. You walk every where. And with the subway stairs and just getting around Manhattan you live a very active life just living every day and you burn calories without noticing and produce endorphins too. And everything is accessible to you. Then you move where you have to depend on a car and deal with traffic and stress and pretty soon you don’t realize it but you become a couch potato because it’s just easier than fighting all the crowds. I live in a rural cattle area where the closest town is 4 miles and 44 people so no amenities and the real town is 30 miles away so I don’t want to make the effort to drive there because it’s just highway and driveways the whole way. So I have found it very hard to motivate myself. But I just turned 50 and had to start HRT for heavy period issues so I’m gaining weight. I’ve always been naturally slim but now I am having to realize that I don’t want to keep getting worse so I’m taking it slow and just making small goals that I can do each week so I don’t fail and burn out and once I get going I end up doing more. Then I make that level my goal and slowly move up. Just try to do something for 5 days and see how you feel. Don’t compare yourself with your past self or anyone else and do it so you can live your best life. And remember that there are a whole bunch of us just like you just trying to get even moving. This post is a great start.
Lolita5 years ago
I had surgery on both knees .I didn’t think I was going to walk properly again or in heels….but I did some sort of exercise just to keep the motion in my knees because if I didn’t do anything they became very stiff. Time heal all things…. great job with doing the yoga it helps.
Kat5 years ago
Can’t say it’s definitely related but, after being in tears through joint and muscle pain, I had blood tests that showed very low vitamin D. I’ve been taking supplements since and it seems to have worked wonders.
Rebs5 years ago
Yes ! My muscles and joints ache. GP took my bloods and they came back with a High Rheumatoid Factor number. (My peri memo’ symptoms were similar to RA).
Jannine5 years ago
Ditto I feel that it might be early symptoms
Nellie5 years ago
I am having terrible pain with my joints and muscles. I just started to take supplements to see if it will help. I am taking calcium with magnesium, vitamin D3 and complete omega. To add to this, the night sweats have been absolutely awful. The woman at the health food store recommended Vitex. I am 51, very active but these last couple of weeks have been awful. I usually work out 3 to 5 times a week and I have not been able too. My hip joints have been in so much pain and my muscles are so sore. Just to give you an idea, I was using the spray cleaner and I was struggling to use it because the pain in my forearm. I hope I feel better soon because this is impacting me in every way. I don’t wish this on anyone but glad to hear I am not alone.
Robin5 years ago
It sounds like you’re describing my life! I am 51 as well and have horrible joint paint in hips, low back, legs. I walk with a lopsided gait now :(. Pre-Covid I taught fitness classes and pretty much quit moving and any little ache and pain I’ve had before was now magnified times 1000. It hurts to move at all! Sounds like I will start with short bouts of yoga… Would be interested to hear how your supplement introduction has works for you and your life. My identity has been tied up in my ability to move and to be the strong one, active one for years... it’s like losing my identity. Thanks for making me feel less alone.
Daphnereplying to Robin4 years ago
Not alone. I was very active. But fighting back by lots of prayer, hill walking, yoga, vitamins and plant based diet. Cutting out ‘junk’. Trying to push my bedtime back to 9 or 10pm. This will not beat me.
Lizzy5 years ago
I’m so sorry to hear this. It echoes my experience which has just begun. :(. It does help me knowing I’m not alone.
Pattyreplying to Lizzy4 years ago
Definitely not alone!
Nithya5 years ago
Yes I have been suffering, doctor suggested vitamin D3. Been taking it since November and it’s been helping.
Flavia5 years ago
I do have joint pain and have been diagnosed with osteoarthritis and osteopenia. I also hurt my knee and find water aerobics really helpful, also yoga and massage. I take vitamin D3, B12, and collagen in powder mixed with juice. Moving, walking, stretching also helps.
Debs5 years ago
My pain is worse at night I take a mild muscle relaxant prescribed by the doctor. I usually exercise everyday but have gone down to 3 days. I am taking turmeric, vit D and I do magnesium and arnica baths still waiting for it all to work. If my legs did not ache so much i think i would cope better.
Caroline5 years ago
I have found that magnesium spray works really well to relieve joint pain especially knees and elbows!
Jax5 years ago
I agree. Have been using magnesium spray on my knees and ankles and it has been helping. My whole body is aches, I thought it was flu but it’s been getting steadily worse for about a year. Very stressful. Keep talking ladies. This helps, more than you know.
Kristy5 years ago
Where do you find mag spray?
MrsTiddreplying to Kristy5 years ago
Bought from BetterYou
Shellreplying to Kristy5 years ago
I make mine by dissolving Epsom salts in warm/hot water. Let it cool. Pour in spray bottle.
Christine5 years ago
This is so helpful to read. I thought it was just me, getting old. I’m going to try some of the suggestions. Thank you ?
Aileen5 years ago
I’ve start today my Pilates exeecise.I feel a bit better.
SpiritAnimal8085 years ago
Turmeric is a good daily addition to food. Yoga can help. Heat helps. Add on an extra layer, hot water bottle, 20 minutes on an electric blanket ;) snuggle in bed and read a book.
Karen5 years ago
Does anyone know if it’s OK to take turmeric long-term? I’ve read that it should only be for a couple of months, and how do I choose which months I want to be in less pain?
Prue5 years ago
Definitely try cod liver oil supplements. My joint pain eased after a week. I carried on exercising but didn’t put any pressure on joints if they were super sore.
Tanya R.5 years ago
Joint and muscle pain are definitely the worst ! Personally, I have to be careful not to put the “wrong” medication in my body !! I have found that 8% lidocaine patches and “ store brand” Bengay applied as often as needed, work like a charm for me ?
Shell5 years ago
I use arnica gel topically.
Julia5 years ago
I can get all over joint pain that wakes me at night, really shockingly painful. It happens occasionally. I’ve been dealing with foot, knee and elbow pains with specific yoga and physio exercises which have both been helpful. Sometimes I will take cocodamol or just codeine before bed to ensure a really still and restful sleep.
Anita5 years ago
Ankle pain has started to become quite debilitating for me. I have a childhood deformity that has been relatively trouble free until now but in the last year the stiffness and soreness leaves me limping most days. Tried yoga/Pilates to improve symptoms but nothing really helping ?
Caro5 years ago
I’ve suffered from joint pain for a few years. I’m 53 and have onset arthritis (told that was quite normal for my age) and I am 1 year into the menopause. I always thought I was as fit as I cloud be. I run, garden, swim, hill walk, cold water swim and do yoga and Pilates and a bit of weight training. I recently had what felt like sciatica. Pain on the right side from shoulder to big toe. So I upped my running, even though I thought I should hang up my trainers... declaring I was too old...but I can honestly say that I have never felt better. Instead of running once a week I run every other day. The pain has reduced to a manageable state and I can now get up in the morning without hobbling around like an 80 year old and feel able to climb the stairs first thing in the morning. It was getting that bad. I have been taking cold showers each morning too as after an ice plunge in a lake which seemed to instantly cure my sciatica I felt I had found the miracle cure. And since this happened about a month ago I have been able to extend my running. See Wim Hof for cold water inspiration. I take supplements: multi vitamins for menopause (the one with green tea and sage) soya isoflavones, and evening primrose. Taken these for years but I have added St. John’s Wort, glucosamine and collagen. I also use Floradix IntestCare which helps with digestive issues that have come on with menopause. It contains turmeric and magnesium amongst other things. I use aromatherapy, clary sage, rose, frankincense and lavender. I bathe after a run in a magnesium salt bath. This really helps with sleep too as does chamomile tea every evening. Anyway, I really have found a huge improvement and am now on a mission to cut down on dairy. Have cut down on caffeine and alcohol too. Would also recommend yoga with Adrienne on YouTube.
Daphne5 years ago
Thanks for the tips.
Amanda5 years ago
Yoga with Adrienne is really nice…I agree.
Kolleen5 years ago
Wow, thanks, this is great information.
Patty4 years ago
I am going to get back to walking 3milesaday. I am stressed to the max but try to keep it to myself. At 64, I am finding myself on a road back towards my career rather than retirement. I have made poor choices in choosing a husband, so I am resolved to start over and be content with myself, and not a wife. I am A very proud nana, and Mom, but have had a hard time getting back to daily exercise and prayer. This has always sustained me thru my life. I am not dealing with stress as well as I did when I exercise and depend on God. Thank you so much for your story how exercises had helped you feel better. I know this but now just need to push go!!
Nicky5 years ago
I’ve started taking marine collage powder! It has really helped with my aching joints! X
Aileen5 years ago
I’m Doing my Pilates exercise 40mins. everyday & it’s a Bighelp for my muscle and also a meditation before I’m going to bed & I take paracetamol as well.
Babs5 years ago
So helpful to read all these comments. I have gone through a natural menopause, I’m 55 years old and it’s over a year since my last period. My menopausal journey/experience so far has been 10 years approx and I never expected or was aware of what symptoms I would experience. Muscle pain and aches being one of the worst daily occurrences for me. I have had blood tests and all came back as normal result. Night time is when I feel my pain the most, it keeps me awake, tossing and turning. In the morning I feel tired always, then I find I can suffer from brain fog too. The pain ranges from mild dull aches to severe, accompanied also with swelling/boating symptoms. I find I suffer with pain in my lower to mid back, neck, arms, legs and whole body. Some times getting out of bed, I find my legs hurt to even walk. Walking as exercise is good for me, heat treatment (hot water bottle to bed) and paracetamol can only slightly help, it takes the edge off, on days where I feel irritable too. I have been taking multi-vitamins but can’t say that I have felt any different. I thought once reaching menopause, my symptoms would get better but they have not. Does anyone know if or when menopause symptoms end?
Cecita (59)5 years ago
It goes eventually which is a relief but some other stay or appear: vaginal dryness, like of libido, dry skin, weight problems, body shape changes etc but we adapt to everything and not having awful menopause symptoms feel great. It took time to accept and live with these changes and go over the angry phase towards the acceptance phase of what’s been lost. I had an early peri menopause (46) so I felt the ‘it’s not fair’ for quite a while but there is light at the end of the tunnel for those awful hot flashes and brain fog moments and going back to sleep properly is great.
Debbie5 years ago
You’ve just described me. I feel like the tin man in the morning.
Jess5 years ago
Babs Thank you so much for writing this. I feel like I’m not alone. I’m 44 and was shocked to find that I was experiencing peri menopause symptoms. The worse symptoms are hot flashes, irritability, brain fog, mood swings and joint pain- wrists, elbows, hips and knees. I’m exhausted in the morning and can barely keep my eyes open. I’m going to look into paracetamol.
Jannine5 years ago
I know what you mean about staying still helps! The pain is so uncomfortable
Max5 years ago
Omg I have been in tears reading all these ladies stories regarding joint pain and aching muscles. I am relieved to know it’s not just me. I have been suffering with a really bad right hip, finger joints, shoulders and knee and basically any muscle that could ache does. The pain when I try and move from one exercise movement to another is ridiculous, I used to be able to jump up and reposition myself quite effortlessly but now it’s like watching an 80 year struggling to move. I push myself to do the exercises because if I don’t it feels so much worse but actually doing is so hard. Every muscle is taught abs uncomfortable and joints are just so different then they were 8 months ago. It virtually seemed to come on over night. I have been taking evening primrose oil and menopace plus which has helped but any other suggestions would be greatly appreciated
Wendi5 years ago
So many right hip pain... wonder why?
Lalareplying to Wendi5 years ago
Most people favor one side of their body (think right handed or left handed) and this results in uneven joint wear and tear. Hip pain is common in women and men as we age.
Pattyreplying to Lala4 years ago
I also find I tend to rest things on my right hip, especially if heavy, which I know better than to carry myself but...
Lexiereplying to Wendi5 years ago
Wendi- Not sure why it seems to always be the right side for so many of us. It is for me as well. In my history it has almost always been my right side for ovulation pain, period pain (although that causes problems on both sides just worse on the right), ovarian cyst, & now peri-menopause issues. I am currently experiencing some sort of severe acute inflammation in the right hip, low back/buttock, side, & pelvis flair up which has aggravated a known sciatic issue on the right side triggered when I fell down my stairs about 5 weeks ago. (Increased klutziness also being a peri- menopause effect for me). I fractured vertebrae and that was what my doctor thought was the sole issue. Currently not working because they only way I can sit or stand is to be on prescription pain killers that I can focus to work. Am exploring acupuncture, some new supplements (Vit D, magnesium, collagen - already taking a multi-vitamin & Omega 3, 6, 9) but am adding in a better quality probiotic & exploring the Feldenkrais Method. (YouTube has some good explanations & exercises). Hope this might be of interest to others. If anyone has any suggestions I’d appreciate them. Ready to try just about anything at this point.
Ana5 years ago
Is evening primrose taken orally or applied to aching joints?
Patty4 years ago
I am glad it is not just me! I felt like my family thought I am a hypochondriac!!
El5 years ago
I have had really sore hips, lower back, right around my pelvis bug hips the worst. I couldn’t walk more than 10 mins without terrible pain and even standing to cook the tea was painful. I bought some decent lightweight trainers and what a difference! I had 3 separate walks over the weekend, around 4 hours in total, more than I’ve walked in the whole of last year! Sore calf muscles afterwards but that feels liked a good kind of pain that you’d expect after exercising! Being outdoors and seeing some friendly faces helped my mood too! Just need to keep it up now! Hope this helps someone!
Laura5 years ago
El, I want to know the brand of trainers you got. I have no idea what qualifies as ‘decent’. My lower back has been weak and on the verge of giving out for several years now. I also hobble like an 80 year old when I get out of bed. And I can’t change sleep positions during the night without a struggle. Everyone, I feel so alone with all this stuff, and being in LA I wonder if this ‘it’s not fair’ phase is going to last as long as I’m living and working here. I’m 52 and all my coworkers are in their 20s and 30s. They seem to have plenty of friends to share their issues with, no kids to take away from their ‘me’ time, and great bodies from hitting the gym every day. I feel like they see me as just a little less valuable somehow, and there’s no way they can understand or even care about this the way you/we all do. How I wish we could meet, hang out, look each other in the eye and feel surrounded by encouraging women who look and feel like me. Maybe I should start a meet up group…. :D For reals, bless you all!
Beatrice5 years ago
Yoga with Adriene!
Tracy5 years ago
Does anyone suffer other illnesses other than menopause or peri menopause. I ask because I have a few other conditions as well as peri menopause now and I’m exhausted all the time. My pain is through the roof along with RLS. (Restless Leg Syndrome) I have fibromyalgia hypothyroidism diabetes and if they weren’t enough bipolar type depression I can’t control my moods.
Tracey5 years ago
Have they looked into Hashimotos disease for you at all, a lot of your symptoms seem to point in that direction.
Nikki5 years ago
I also have FM with PVFS. I can relate, I feel being peri-menopausal has exacerbated everything and pain is now so distracting :(
Beatriz5 years ago
I have entered peri menopause without noticing.. for the past two years ago I would wake up with pain in my finger joints, all of them! It felt as if there was sand inside my finger, a terrible sensation of swallow hands. However my hands were normal. Now these pains and sensation is gone. I guess most of us didn’t and does not see joint pain as one of the signs of menopause... well, joint pain are gone hot flashes and night sweats are in!
Abena5 years ago
I have suffered sciatica, back shoulder and now my wrist and left thumb. I try to be aware of joint mobility - so when the pain starts I make sure to rest and stretch the joint area gently. If I don’t the areas around the joint seizes up and makes the pain worse. Feels complicated but really helps to reduce the length of time I’m in extreme pain and frequency of the painful episodes. Hard to do hot treatment with the hot flushes - interchanging between hot and cold therapy at different times of day really helps.
Caro5 years ago
Feeling your pain, literally. I think with acing joints the culprit is inflammation and from what I’ve read the best way to combat this is with diet and exercise. Up your Essentially fatty acids intake by eating nuts, seeds, oily fish and vegetables. And cutting down on dairy and red meat as these produce prostaglandins that can increase inflammation and pain in the joints. Omega 3 and 6 are good. Omega 3 from oily fish, linseeds, walnuts, soya, pumpkin and leafy greens. Omega 6 from sunflower, sesame, walnuts, linseed and soya. A good supplement is evening primrose oil. Also glucosamine. Bromelain too... This is anti inflammatory and is found in pineapples. Look for the following supplements GLA EPA Glucosamine MSM (methyl sulphonamides methane) Bromelain All found naturally in food too. Helpful herbs are Devil’s claw and Boswelloc acid. Aromatherapy: lavender, camomile, bergamot and rose. Yoga is very helpful.
Cath5 years ago
That’s great advice thank you. I have been very sore lately and getting a bit fed up with it as I am trying to exercise to get healthier and fitter.
Apes5 years ago
This is amazing advice, so informative. Thank you for sharing. I’ve recently been diagnosed calcium deficiency too..as I have milk &! Soya allergy! Nightmare tbh! So I shall definitely be taking your advice of the diet & supplements! ?
Kolleen5 years ago
Thanks for the information!
Doris5 years ago
I have nodular arthritis which is worst in my knees I find when I sit still my knee pain gets worse ... keeping moving is the key ... when I do walking it hurts at first then gets easier but then after a mile or so it starts to hurt again I’ve just invested in an e bike , the exercise is not weight bearing, and I can go for miles and miles and my knees feel so much freer and hurt less
Kazzarina5 years ago
Hi, I have had pretty bad pain - leg muscle aches, burning joints and muscle twitching. Whilst some days still quite bad, does seem to have been a lot better since taking Menopace original multivitamin. Also taking magnesium glycinate tablets 200mg - half suggested dose as Menopace also has magnesium and don’t want to take too much. Found Better You body cream with magnesium helps too. Just sharing in case these things might help others. I really had no idea that perimenopause/menopause could cause such issues. I thought there was something seriously wrong, but had many tests now and all normal. Needs to be more awareness out there. Stay strong ladies!
Suzanne5 years ago
I walk and take fish oil capsules, and it’s much better.
Papillon Bleu5 years ago
I’ve been taking only vitamin d. From my doctor: the once a week capsules. And to tell you the truth it’s really not doing anything because of my preexisting health issues. So I hope 5o get some suggestions here.?
MrsM5 years ago
Most of my joint and muscle pain has been in my calves, ankles, and feet. I purchased a Circulation Air Compression Foot and Calf Massager with Handheld Controller 2 Modes 3 Intensities for $90 at Amazon and use it before bedtime for one or two 20-minutes cycles while I read. It helps immensely to reduce the inflammation and pain and I can sleep better.
Tedi5 years ago
I do yoga every morning or night and I try to walk every evening. If I don’t walk everyday then I find that I really hurt.
Kathy5 years ago
Anyone have trigger finger where the joint locks up???
Wendi5 years ago
Yes, such a weird thing!
Stacie5 years ago
Yes, I had surgery where they cut the tendon. Feels much better, but on -20 cold weather not so much☺️
Jess5 years ago
Yes! Have it in my middle finger. Makes it look like I can’t decide whether to flip you off or not.
Sheri5 years ago
Moving more! I’m trying Pilates as it isn’t a bouncing exercise and stretches my muscles and joints. Allow myself to take pain meds if needed.
Litza5 years ago
Finally I found Reiki Healing, also I am a Hatha and Kundalini Yoga teacher. Also I trying to be active as much as I can, I looked at pains as great information that my nerves are receiving messages from my body and let me know when to stopping.
Vicky5 years ago
I’ve been taking Ginger tablets and increasing my water intake. A few times I’ve used a Eucalyptus rub on my shoulders. It feels like every old injury has begun to resurface too.
Stella5 years ago
I wake up with pain in the sole of my right foot and find it painful to walk but I realised when I persevere and walk on it for like 5min it goes away and this has been going on for a couple of months now. Anyone experiencing this?
Caro5 years ago
Yes! I have been experiencing foot pain concentrated in my heel (right foot) for about 4 months now. It is at its worst first thing when I get out of bed. And like you say eases when you get going! I have pain down my right side from neck to heel. I thought it was sciatica as heel pain can be connected to sciatica. My doctor suggested the heel pain was plantar fasciitis and recommended supported footwear (I bought some cushioned insoles for my shoes) and some exercises for it; calf stretches are good. I use a small spiky massage ball to roll my foot over and seems to help. They are good to use on shoulders too, against a wall. So worth looking in to. There’s an exercise to use with a towel too, or a Pilates band if you have one. The doctor suggested that it was not connected to my other aches and pains or the sciatica.
Ruth5 years ago
I have over the years on and off - for me it’s plantar fasciitis. Before you stand on in the morning, massage the sole of your foot, and don’t go barefoot - wear something with arch support. Check out remedies online but for me, insoles and stretching are the most important to keep it at bay.
Shell5 years ago
I uses rolling pin to roll the muscles in my calf and front of lower leg and it helps alleviate the intensity of the foot pain. I also use arnica gel topically. It helps.
Nikki5 years ago
I thought it was just me. I mentioned it to the dr and he looked at me like I was mad! Lower back pain at the moment: it’s gone from shoulder, hip, neck - I feel like I’m always moaning and in pain!
Lucette5 years ago
Hi Jannine, I’m with Kellie, if I don’t keep moving, my pain gets worse. So I have to push through. My exercise consists of riding my bike and walking. My speed with both varies based on the severity of the pain, but I have to keep pushing myself, otherwise, I’m miserable.
Carie5 years ago
My joint pain has been coming on these last couple of years.. I’m 46 and most of my pain comes from my back. I also found yoga very refreshing . I started of ten minutes a day.. now I go 30 minutes and feel great.. some days I go to much but then have a down day where I try and relax. Being outdoors in sunny weather helps.. I don’t think about it as much. But it is happening more and I feel an overwhelming desire to swim more. I heard swimming takes away some of the pressure.. stress is not making it any better.. I need to find new ways to not stress or have so much anxiety.
Shell5 years ago
Swimming feels great
Litza5 years ago
Since 2001 my health went down hill with so many medical problems, I staying in bed often. What I did not realize was the big mistake of my decisions. As Nurse I saw what happened to the body if you let the pains or any medical problems to staying in bed or sitting. When I was able to starting to walking the pains got worsening, then I remembered patients with their joints locked for not exercising. After that I went to walking every day, I build up my healthy to stable. In 2017 the surgery in my left eyes left totally drained again I was sleeping almost 24 hours a day, I gained weight, and my back starting to hurt. Once more I jumped into workout and I got in shape. Then last year lower back pains then surgery. I am still strangled with get in back up again. Also, a lot has happened. I did kept my brain in shape. So not pain no gain, but the worse it is never to be able to even lift a fork. Once your joints locked is permanently. Do not let your pain controls you, actually feeling pains is a great signing your nervous and the muscles, ligaments and other organs are communicating. As example: “ Botox is to stopping the nervous to communicate with the muscles hence, you won’t know if it is something wrong with you. “
Pain all over!4 years ago
Keep going You are doing all you can
Fionnuala5 years ago
Hi , I find my feet ache after sitting or lying down, when I stand up. It wears off once I start moving!
Kate5 years ago
OMG!! Thank god for this app! Was feeling crazy with all my joint pains. Then when I described these symptoms to my primary, she brush them off, that all the pain I was feeling had nothing to do with menopause. I work outside so thought maybe Lyme, bloodwork came back negative. Anyways, it’s weird but happy I’m not alone. Seriously, was definitely feeling crazy. I have always worked out, sometimes to the extreme, but realize more does not equal better. I need to respect what my body needs now not what I think. And honestly ageism is an issue. Must be perfect. Perfect hair, perfect skin, and perfect body. It’s exhausting. Trying to learn to embrace my wabi-sabism - is a view centered on the acceptance of transience and imperfection-. I’m not saying I don’t care for my body. Trying to feed myself well (I suffered with an eating disorder), and to move my body, just being more mindful of my bodies needs not what my crazy head thinks it needs. Thank you all for being honest. I cannot tell you how helpful reading all your posting has been for me. With gratitude ?????
Ness5 years ago
Wow!! I honestly didn’t connect joint pain with menopause. I just turned 50 and I though this was just me getting old. I’ve been doing Pilates 3x a week. I love it and feel good while I’m doing it but then ouch I’m achy! And then my knee starts acting up and my shoulder hurts. Makes me not want to do any exercise at all.
Eileen5 years ago
I find that I need to do my yoga every morning. It definitely helps with joint pain and making me feel much better
Katie5 years ago
I also find that oncoming g pain makes me want to stay still. It’s a weirdo phenomenon that makes zero sense to me honestly,
Frances5 years ago
I am 48 with no period for 9 months now. I too have joint pain, RESTLESS NIGHTS , interrupted sleep, NIGHT SWEATS, hot flashes. I started taking CBD oil. It was to help with joint pain. Let me tell you I sleep like a baby. I only get up to go to bathroom may once if that. NO more night sweats and very little hot flasheS THROUGH THE DAY!! That was a shocker. This could be a confidence, maybe but I will recommend to anyone. I use a brand called zebra as they can back the low dose of thc in their stuff. They give you a access to lot number and the numbers of thc.
Debbie5 years ago
I bought my dog some thc for her cancer and I used to take a drop before bed just to help me sleep well I still do take a drop now and again and it does help I’ve just got to be careful not to take too much otherwise I get stoned lol
Pain all over!4 years ago
My friend did recommend CBD oil But was too scared to take it
Jo5 years ago
I found taking a Maca Root capsule everyday has really helped my aches & pains
Debbie5 years ago
Hi, I feel everyone’s pain. I’m 56 and I would say active. The last several years I have suffered with achy muscles and joint pain. I even got a frozen shoulder several years ago which was horrendous and I believe that was the start of my menopause, but now my pain is in my shoulders, hip, lower back and stomach area. I have had lots of blood tests and everything comes back fine. My doctor says I have fibromyalgia which I don’t believe for one second (it’s the menopause) . So I took up pole exercise a couple of years ago and the helped a lot but COVID arrived so now I have bought a iPhone and I do regular fitness. My phone tracks all my work outs , it’s fab and I started walking to work I walk the dog every morning and started doing yoga, Hit, bike riding and spin. It’s helped loads. I am eating healthier drinking herbal teas, taking krill oil, turmeric, turkey tail and I’m just going to order some essiac tea. I do believe exercise and diet make such a big difference.
Ruth5 years ago
I am 56 and had a hysterectomy in my 40’s but the joint pain became unbearable last year. I work a very physical job up to 18 hours a day, as it is my business but I take 1800mg of Turmeric a day on an empty stomach, with water. It is just a food supplement, with added ginger & black pepper. I know if I run out or forget to take though as the pain comes straight back. I recommend it to everyone.
Kim5 years ago
I have had joint aches for several years on and off especially during weather changes. I am 59 and this is not gotten any better although several years ago I did find a over-the-counter remedy that has really helped with this. It is called turmeric, I take 1000 mg daily it has always helped with my joint aches. I was skeptical at first when I was told about it, My joint aches did seem to get better. Being skeptical I stopped taking it for a couple months am I join pain returned so naturally I started taking it again noticing the change. But it seems as I get older especially in the last two years I’ve noticed that they seem to hurt again even though I take the turmeric daily. Someone told me to try yoga And daily stretching. I am starting that now so I will update when I have better news
Elaine5 years ago
I find yoga is very good for stiffness and joint pain that helps me
Elizabeth5 years ago
Stretching, walking and 800mg IBUPROFEN
Apes5 years ago
Swimming helps my joint pain..I have to push through the pain barrier tho which is hard!
Apes5 years ago
I am in paid daily atm too..as I suffer with fibromyalgia, bone disease, calcium deficiency & chronic fatigue amongst other ailments. When the pains so bad I use Epsom salts in my bath..with baking powder, aromatherapy oils..sometimes I add a stocking with porridge oats too..as it soothe my skin! Soak for 20-30 mins at least..some days I have 2-3 as it’s the only thing that takes the pains away!
Vicki5 years ago
Thank you for sharing your stories. I just woke up and feel achy and tired. This is a normal routine for me. Poor sleep, aches the minute I wake up. Your posts have inspired me to do yoga this morning. I always talk myself out of it by trying to sleep a few more minutes. Not today.
Sophie5 years ago
Gentle exercise
Byrd5 years ago
I workout a lot (always have) but I find my joints hurt way more than they used to I recently started using ginger oil and it helps with inflammation and pain.
Ali4 years ago
How?
Kimmie J5 years ago
I had no idea joint pain was a symptom of menopause until I signed up for the app
Angela5 years ago
Within 2 weeks of starting HRT (oestrogen gel combined with my Mirena coil for both contraception and progesterone) my aches and pains are gone. Oestrogen is a body identical (ie not bio identical) made from yams. I’m 52, peri menopausal, no other real issues other than the aches and pains. Our bodies need oestrogen (and progesterone and testosterone) and when it declines, issues occur. I’d always kept the idea of HRT at arms length, but the modern options are definitely worth considering … years ago we would have been dead in our 50s. Now we can quite reasonably expect to live to our 80s and 90s and I’m not willing to put up with the impact of lack of oestrogen was having on my body. We don’t suddenly stop needing our hormones, it’s just our body stops producing them to the same degree …
Pat or Patty5 years ago
I have terrible arthritis in my hands. I am 72 years old and I used to work on a Ranch, hard work in inclement weather conditions.
Loulou5 years ago
When I was diagnosed with osteoarthritis in my neck and right shoulder 17 years ago, I started taking glucosamine and condroitin. It made such a difference (give it 4-6 weeks to start working) I’ve started a couch to 5k to get running again, after my extended ‘rest’ from running after a half marathon in 2019. I’m now 57, and still have hot flushes and heart palpitations, but I’m not giving up yet. I gave up caffeine (mostly), about 5 years ago and found it helped. Alcohol seems to make the flushes worse! Keep trying different things until you find something that works for you, after all we are all different.
Dayna5 years ago
Thanks for telling about the slray i am definitely frying that, i just have been cleared from breast cancer and get thrown on this hormone pill that i am not used to yet and am having bone pain in feet a lot
JoyYoga5 years ago
I relate to lots of comments like being still and I found the fatigue and aching muscles and joint pain really difficult to deal with. Recently l have found increasing exercise very mindfully has been helpful- it’s bizarre that sore muscles from using weights and doing gentle cardio is preferable! I usually do daily resistance stretching too which can temporarily ease back pain.I have tried liquid vit d at high doses, liquid floradix and magnesium. I start the day with fresh lemon and ginger plus turmeric and also use bentonite clay and Chaga mushroom tea. A hot water bottle or bath is also very soothing and if I feel anxious or overwhelmed I play my tongue drum or use a meditation app. Balance is my favourite. I do use oestrogen patches but these help more with mood and hot flushes. Good luck at finding your solution ? If time and cash is an issue, definitely liquid D, ginger lemon and turmeric and the hot water bottle! Balance is free on iphone for a year this month and as a longtime yoga teacher it is my favourite meditation app. ?♀️
Susannah5 years ago
I have had great results with periodic chiropractic adjustments. There are good and mediocre docs, so you might have to try a few before you find the one who gets you.
Amy5 years ago
Heat, stretching and strengthening as much as possible. I’m not someone who works out but I do small exercises while I brush my teeth and I stretch throughout the day. I still use heat a lot but I get through.
Tootie5 years ago
I walk as much as possible. If the pain is pretty bad, I apply a topical ointment such as Biofreeze and take a 200mg. Celebrex anti-inflammatory prescribed by my doctor and then walk as long as I can. I mainly walk up and down my driveway as it’s long just as a precautionary measure so if my knees gets too painful, I can stop and rest and then start again. This has worked for me as I am 71 and still working as a nurse in a major hospital. I am at the management level now but I do answer to Code Blue which calls for fast action and I am able to do that with no pain. I have learned over the years to appreciate everyday that God gives me even with pain. I have also learned to appreciate everyone else who are different from me and to always empathize with others so I can better understand them. Above all I put God first in all that I do. I know this is a lot of information but for younger people I wanted to add a few words. Thank you for reading.
Daphne4 years ago
Thank you aunty for this perspective.
Rosie5 years ago
Ok so mine is more foot “pain”. Though it’s not like pain/pain. I wish I could explain it. It’s more like if I sit for too long and stand up, my feet are stiff and it’s like I’m the Tinman from the Wizard of Oz needing to oil up my joints before I can move. Not really “pain” but feel like I am “stuck”. I have been trying to consciously roll my ankles and flex my feet when sitting and that seems to help a little. I am going to start weekly yoga classes to see if that helps. Anyone else like me?
Pain all over!4 years ago
Karen
Pain all over!4 years ago
So much happier Not because all you lovely ladies are feeling pain …but because I don’t feel like I’m going mad x
Lauren S.4 years ago
I get up early in the morning and pray a prayer of health and then I go on a 30 minute walk in my neighborhood.
Kimberly4 years ago
With proper diet and exercise and vitamin supplementation. Everyone thinks there is some shortcut to that and there never is - diet and exercise are always the answer. Proper diet promotes less stress on your joints and proper diet balances the chemicals in your body to properly dispose of things like lactic acid which can build up and cause pain. Also take (GOOD) probiotics and and magnesium to promote a healthy gut and digestion. Do research on foods that promote a healthy gut. You’d be shocked at what your body cannot digest - like an apple and celery. And remember to try things, but that your body isn’t everyone else’s body, so don’t expect it to be. Be kind to yourself and don’t pressure yourself to be like everyone else. What works for others may not work for you - but you will find what does… And then you’ll get to share with the rest of us :) it’s a process, and we all continue it. ✌??⚕️
Cams4 years ago
OMGosh it just hit me! The pain in my arms are perimenopausal symptoms! SMH I don’t think I can thank you all enough. I’ve been blaming myself for not being active enough, not eating well, not doing this thing or not doing that thing. I’ve really been feeling alone but this discussion just brought me back from feeling like an outcast. I’m now more motivated to begin my yoga practice and get out for a walk with dog in the middle of the day instead of leaving it for my kids to do. If she gets multiple walks then she’ll be even happier and so will I. Thank you so much, ladies ❤️
Kate4 years ago
Has anyone tried collagen
Anne-Marie4 years ago
Yoga is the only way I can manage my hip and leg pain. Do it everyday for at least 20 minutes. Used to do regularly pre pandemic, thought it was causing the pain! Highly recommend looking at Yoga with Adriene on YouTube - this got me back into regular gentle but challenging exercise. No more pain killers now!
Krafty4 years ago
One of the best things for my knee pain was weight lifting. I went slow at first, and modified appropriately with a trainer. When I first started I couldn’t even do a squat without intense pain. After weight lifting and cardio, I could do squats + weights (with little to no pain.)
Ali4 years ago
Omg, I have neck and shoulder pains!