Symptom
Aching joints
Stiff or painful joints and muscles, often in the hands, knees, hips or shoulders.
- Listed by the NHS as
- A common symptom of menopause and perimenopause1
- What helps many people
- Regular exercise and staying a healthy weight2
What it can feel like
- Stiffness when you get up in the morning
- Aches that move around
- Sore muscles after less activity than before
What guidance says can help
Staying active
The NHS lists regular exercise, with a focus on strength and weight-bearing exercise, among things that can help, particularly for bone strength.2
A doctor’s view
A doctor can look for other causes of joint pain and discuss treatment options.3
When to see someone
- Urgent:A joint that is hot, red and swollen, or pain with a fever.
- Pain or stiffness that lasts, or is stopping you doing everyday things.
For symptoms that can’t wait, see Get help now.
Questions to ask
- Could my joint pain be linked to the menopause, or should we look for other causes?
- What kind of exercise would help most?
- Is there any treatment you would suggest?
Often comes with
Sources
- NHS. Menopause and perimenopause symptoms.
- NHS. Things you can do to help with menopause symptoms.
- NHS. Menopause and perimenopause treatment.
General information, not medical advice. It can’t tell you what is causing your symptoms.