have been going through the menopause for about a year and a half now. I am 47 years old, and I feel as though I am managing it quite well, but the main thing that is worrying me is that I have suddenly developed an ache in my lower arm muscles. It does not feel like joint pain, and it seems to spread from my wrists right up to my elbows. Do you think that this is being caused by the menopause? I have also been going through quite a lot of stress recently, in fact I am moving house on Monday and my emotions have been all over the place. I practice mindfulness meditation to help, and I have sessions of kinesiology, but I am struggling with the muscle ache. I do exercise 3-4 times a week doing circuits and yoga, and I have a healthy diet.

Falling oestrogen can often cause inflammation in the muscles and joints, and we know that stress/anxiety can make symptoms worse, so it is possible that this is what is happening to you right now.

There are several things you could do, such as take Menopause Support and Devils Claw.

Menopause Support is traditionally used to gently raise and balance oestrogen thus reducing symptoms. Devils Claw is traditionally used for joint/muscle aches and pains. 

Unfortunately, the hormonal changes during the menopause put tremendous strain on the body and this, in itself, can contribute to menopause symptoms such as flushes, poor sleep, low mood, and fatigue. 

It is very important to look after yourself well at this time and make sure that your nutritional needs are being met. It is good that you have a healthy diet but just make sure that you are drinking lots of water as dehydration can make symptoms worse.

Rest and relaxation are vital and meditation has been found to reduce symptoms quite considerably to keep that up!

Sensible exercise is important but don't go overboard. Combining a lot of exercise with the stress of the menopause could be the cause of your muscle aches as well.

If you exercise a lot it is really important to take a proper sports nutrition supplement every day.

Also protein needs often get higher at this time so if you are vegetarian, or only eat a little meat,  it would be an idea to take a protein powder shake every day too - just check that it doesn't contain sugar or artificial sweeteners.

Eileen Durward