I am pre-menopausal - I haven't had a period since May. Both of my knees are extremely painful, and at night my hips start to ache. I am over-weight, and my doctor has said that I have arthritis in my knees. I am not so sure, and my doctor does not want to send me to get the issue checked any further. I was prescribed celebrex, which I do not like to be on. Do you think that maybe I don't have arthritis? Could it be the menopause?

Joint pain is a very common symptom in the Peri-menopause and menopause, as falling oestrogen can affect the hydration of the joints, causing inflammation and pain.

You may find Devils Claw and Arnica Gel helpful. Check your diet too, as caffeine, high salt and sugar foods and processed foods can all irritate the joints further.

I have made a short video on joint health in the menopause and what you can do to help yourself, so do take a look at it if you can.

Eileen Durward