Can Lack Of Estrogen Cause Joint Pain?

As you age, your body goes through many changes, one of the biggest for women,being menopause. Though it’s a normal phase of life for every woman, a wide range of physical symptoms can make it an unpleasant time. From hot flashes, mood swings, and fatigue, to achy joints, a lot can happen in your body. 

While all of this is happening, many women often ask, can lack of estrogen cause joint pain? Well, estrogen is the main female hormone, it helps in strengthening the joints and also decreases inflammation. But, as estrogen levels decrease throughout menopause, inflammation can rise, so the chance of joint pain increases, along with the risk of swollen joints.

Menopause can also cause hormonal imbalances which make one’s bones more brittle. This puts women at a higher risk of developing joint pain or arthritis. Even though there may not be a clear, direct relationship between estrogen and joint pain, the two often exist side by side. Let’s explore more how this hormone can affect joint pain. 

How To Find Estrogen Related Joint Pain 

Estrogen-related joint pain is generally the most prevalent in the morning, as joints are sore and stiff from a lack of overnight activity. It steadily decreases as the day continues. The chin, back, knees, wrists, and elbows are by far the most often affected joints during menopause, though other joints in the body may experience pain as well. 

Estrogen’s Effects On Joint Pain

Falling estrogen levels are one of the primary sources of menopausal joint pain. When you approach menopause, the body’s levels of estrogen begins to decline. Estrogen helps to regulate fluid balance in the body, so when its production decreases, it can also reduce the body’s ability to retain water. 

This may impair the lubrication of joints such as ligaments, cartilage, and tendons. Cartilage is made up of about 80% water, making it a critical component of this resilient and supportive tissue. Cartilage also serves as a buffer between bones, minimizes shock, and reduces friction. 

Water is also a common component of synovial fluid, a gel-like substance that greases the cartilage and enables the joints to move freely, which means a reduction in this fluid will hinder the stability and lubrication of joints. When this defensive and nurturing aspect is weak, aches, pains, and stiffness may occur. Consequently, the impact of the reduction in key body fluids can be the reason for joint pain.

How Can You Cure Joint Pain Caused By Low Estrogen?

If you are in your menopausal phase, it is possible that low estrogen is the reason for your joint pain. Below are some ways to manage this.

Exercise Regularly

Daily exercise is the secret to a pain-free life. Numerous tests have proven that exercise is necessary for maintaining a healthy mind and heart,  and is also great for bone density. Constant low-impact exercise, such as cycling, walking, climbing, and yoga, can further reduce joint pain and stiffness.

Eat a Healthy Diet 

In addition to daily exercise, a nutrient rich diet can supply the body with the necessary vitamins and minerals to deal with the unwanted side effects of menopause. Be sure to Include protein in your diet, as it will help you retain muscle mass, which is essential for bone support.

Strengthen Your Joints & Muscles

Strength training workouts help to preserve bone mass as we age, and develop muscle, which relieves joint strain. Focus on movements that stimulate the muscles around the knee joint and hip since these are the joints that support the whole body. 

Wrapping Up

Estrogen does play a role in causing joint pain during the menopausal phase, so be sure you take proper measures to treat any joint pain that may be caused by low estrogen levels.