Where it started
Following on from my last blog post about joint pain during the menopause, I thought I would share a lovely success story with you…
A few weeks previously I had this interesting email, the subject of which is really common. I get asked this kind of thing a lot and I thought it would be a really good one to share.
The question:
“I am 56 and have had no periods since November last year. I suffer from neck pain and stiffness, aching in my legs and lower back and occasional burning sensations on the front of my legs below the knees. It passes as the morning progresses.
I have less frequent but more intense hot flushes. I have had sciatica quite a few years ago but take great care of my back and do a lot of walking. I was wondering if menopause could have affected my past issues and if it’s okay to continue walking several miles a week despite morning stiffness and burning sensations.”
My reply was:
Yes, falling oestrogen levels can affect the hydration of the joints, tendons and ligaments and this in turn can trigger joint aches and pains. If your joints were affected before then this could make them more vulnerable to the hormonal changes going on now. I would suggest Devil’s Claw and a magnesium supplement to help ease the discomfort and stiffness.
Dehydration during the night could be a contributory factor to the morning stiffness so make sure that you are drinking plenty of plain water through the day and a small glass in the evening about an hour before bed.
Exercise is really important so do keep up with the walking if you can.
I was so happy to get this reply back:
“Things have improved since I started to drink more water, especially in the evening. I now drink small but regular amounts of water throughout the day and early evening, as well as keeping active. I stop the car and get out to walk around on longer journeys.
I have had no pain or stiffness in the morning for almost two weeks and have just enjoyed a trip to Wimbledon with my husband where we did a lot of walking. I suffered no ill effects and we enjoyed walking together – some “us” time, which is an added benefit.
I cannot believe the amazing effect of greater hydration!! Hot flushes are now decreasing in number and are only really an issue in venues that are rather warm, e.g. restaurants.
P.S. Always walk up steep steps slowly – steps are good exercise but you don’t want to get too hot and bothered!”
Simple things can make a big difference
Thank you so much, Margaret, for this, I just love it when easy, simple things you can do to help yourself can make such a big difference.
What simple or easy tips can you pass on to all our lovely ladies out there? Don’t worry if yours seems a bit strange or silly – if it is helping you it is more than likely it can help others too!
Share your tips in the comment section below…
