If you have noticed a few new aches, pains, stiff joints or a general feeling that your body doesn’t move the way that it used to – you’re not imagining it. Joint pain is one of the most common yet least talked about symptoms of menopause. For many women it appears suddenly and can feel frustrating and possibly worrying.
The reason behind this, hormones – as oestrogen levels fall during menopause and peri-menopause the body loses one of its natural anti-inflammatory protectors. Oestrogen helps keep joints lubricated, tissues elastic and inflammation in check. When it drops your joints can feel stiffer, more painful and it can be slower to recover from exercise. This is why some women often report new shoulder pain, hip discomfort, knee issues or even something called ‘Frozen Shoulder’ around this stage of life.
At the same time your bones and tissue are quietly changing too. From our mid 40’s onwards our bone density begins to decrease more rapidly, especially after menopause. Bones become less dense and more fragile increasing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. The tricky part is that bone loss is invisible. You don’t feel it happening until something goes wrong which is why prevention is so important.
The good news? You can absolutely do something about this!
One of the most effective ways to support both joint health and bone strength during menopause is strength training. When we lift weights we place healthy stress on our body in a controlled and measured way signalling them to stay strong and dense. Muscles become stronger, joints become more supported, balance improves and everyday movement becomes easier and safer.
Strength training can also:
- Reduce joint stiffness
- Improves posture and stability
- Protects against falls and injuries
- Supports metabolism and weight management
- Boosts confidence in your body
To receive the benefits of this it doesn’t mean heavy lifting or intimidating gym sessions. It means learning how to move safely, with guidance and at your own pace.
Joint pain doesn’t mean decline. It’s often an invitation to move differently and more often.
