I am 49 years old and I have been Peri-menopausal since I was 44. As of now, I haven't had a period for about a year. I do suffer from many menopausal symptoms, such as mood swings, mild hot flushes, and incontinence. However, now I am also getting backache, sore neck muscles, and stiff joints. Are joint pains common with the menopause? I am concerned that it might be the start of rheumatoid arthritis. I am otherwise healthy, and on a good, wholefood diet. I do regular cardio exercises and pilates.

It normally takes about 2 years after your periods have stopped for your hormones to settle down and during this time many women do experience symptoms.

Yours are all common ones! Joint pains/stiffness is often helped with Devils Claw and I would suggest taking a fish oil supplement, or a product such as arnical gel, as they can help to 'lubricate' the joints.

I would also recommend a magnesium citrate supplement (200mg twice a day with food), as this is a vital mineral for the menopause and is needed for mood, relaxation, and sleep to name but a few!

Watch the amount of exercise you do - sensible exercise is important but don't go overboard. The menopause puts tremendous strain on the body and, if you push yourself too hard, this can actually make symptoms worse!

Doing lots of sports increases your nutritional needs many-fold, and your nutritional needs also go sky high in the menopause so you can end up deficient which again can affect symptoms.

It may be a good idea for you to also take a daily sports supplement or a protein drink as well to make sure your vitamin and mineral needs are being met.

Eileen Durward