Perimenopause and severe joint/muscle pain
Posted , 18 users are following.
Hello there, I thought I'd start a newer thread about perimenopause and severe joint and muscle pain. Has anyone else experienced this, and has anything helped?
Here are my details:
- 48, seem to be in perimenopause
- for months have been having severe pain/stiffness in upper left arm, then left shoulder, then both upper legs, then both hips, then both thumbs, then both wrists, both elbows, both feet... practically everywhere
- strange left-side tongue/throat/facial pain started last summer; mostly under control now with very low dose clonazepam
- severe fatigue and brain fog
- have seen several specialists; rheumatologist has said she doesn't think I have autoimmune disease but is doing more tests
Does anyone have stories/information to share? Thanks very much.
2 likes, 17 replies
liihlies stella-z
Posted
hello. have you experienced burning leg pain?
athena22807 stella-z
Posted
Perimenopause is a transitional phase leading up to menopause, and hormonal fluctuations during this time can cause a wide range of symptoms. Joint and muscle pain are among the symptoms that some women experience during perimenopause.
It's important to note that joint and muscle pain can also be caused by other factors unrelated to perimenopause. In terms of managing joint and muscle pain during perimenopause, there are a few strategies you can consider:
Exercise: Regular physical activity, including low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, or cycling, can help strengthen muscles and reduce joint stiffness. Consult with a healthcare professional before starting any exercise regimen.
Heat and cold therapy: Applying heat or cold packs to affected joints can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. Experiment with both methods to see which provides more relief.
Lifestyle changes: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle can have a positive impact on your overall well-being. Eating a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, managing stress, and avoiding excessive alcohol and tobacco consumption may help alleviate symptoms.
Hormone therapy: In some cases, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may be recommended to manage perimenopause symptoms, including joint and muscle pain. However, the decision to pursue HRT should be made in consultation with a healthcare professional, considering the potential risks and benefits.
It's crucial to discuss your symptoms with your healthcare provider, as they can provide personalized advice and appropriate treatment options based on your specific situation. They may consider referring you to a specialist such as a rheumatologist or a menopause specialist who can provide further evaluation and guidance.
Remember, everyone's experience with perimenopause is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. By working closely with your healthcare team, you can develop a plan to manage your symptoms and improve your overall quality of life.