Joint Pain in Menopause: What’s Really Happening—And What to Do About It

Hot flushes, mood swings, fatigue—these are the menopause symptoms most people expect. But joint pain? Many women are surprised to find that during perimenopause and menopause, their knees, hips, shoulders, and hands start to ache, swell, or stiffen for no obvious reason. This isn’t just “getting older”—it’s a real, biological response to hormonal change. Fortunately, joint pain in menopause is manageable, especially with early intervention and the right support.

At MSK Doctors and Regen PhD, our Menopause & Joint Health Clinic offers a fully integrated approach to help you understand what’s happening in your body—and regain strength, flexibility, and comfort.

What’s Really Happening: The Hormone–Joint Connection

Oestrogen plays a vital role in musculoskeletal health. It helps regulate inflammation, maintain cartilage, and preserve bone density. During menopause, as oestrogen levels decline, joints lose some of this protective support.

This can lead to:

• Increased joint inflammation

• Cartilage degeneration

• Reduced collagen production, affecting ligaments and tendons

• Accelerated bone density loss (linked to osteoporosis)

Many women begin experiencing stiffness, aches, or a “creaky” feeling—particularly in weight-bearing joints like the knees and hips, or high-use joints like the fingers and shoulders.

Common Menopausal Joint Symptoms

You may notice:

• Morning stiffness that lasts more than 30 minutes

• Generalised aches without injury or exertion

• Swelling or tenderness, especially in hands, knees, or wrists

• Reduced flexibility or joint fatigue during normal activities

• Discomfort in previously injury-free areas

These symptoms are often dismissed or misdiagnosed, especially if blood tests don’t show markers of inflammatory arthritis. However, joint pain during menopause is a legitimate concern—and one that can be addressed with the right expertise.

What You Can Do: A Regenerative, Personalised Approach

At MSK Doctors and Regen PhD, we don’t just treat symptoms—we investigate the underlying cause using a combination of advanced diagnostics and regenerative strategies.

🔍 Step 1: Comprehensive Assessment

• Bone scans to assess density and osteoporosis risk

• MRI or onMRI™ imaging to evaluate cartilage health

• MAI-Motion™ analysis to identify muscle imbalances and joint strain

• Nutritional and hormonal profiling to uncover systemic contributors

💡 Step 2: Personalised Treatment Plan

• Hormone-aware rehabilitation, with joint-friendly exercises

• Targeted regenerative injections, such as PRP or hyaluronic acid

• Strength and mobility programmes designed around your movement profile

• Nutritional optimisation, including collagen support and anti-inflammatory plans

• Menopause support via our integrated clinic, including symptom tracking and lifestyle coaching

This is not a one-size-fits-all programme—it’s precision care, tailored to your unique biology and lifestyle.

Why Regenerative Medicine Matters in Menopause

Traditional joint pain treatment often focuses on anti-inflammatories or joint replacements. But regenerative medicine offers a gentler, earlier alternative—especially important for women in their 40s, 50s, and early 60s who want to stay active without surgery.

Regen PhD focuses on harnessing the body’s own healing potential. This includes:

• PRP therapy to support joint repair

• mFAT (microfat injections) for cushioning and cell signalling

• Cell-based therapy (where appropriate) to aid tissue regeneration

• Regen IV nutrition and the Regen PhD Pod, supporting systemic recovery and inflammation reduction

These therapies align with your body’s healing rhythms and can be used alongside lifestyle or hormonal support to optimise long-term joint health.

Additional Patient Information

Joint pain during menopause isn’t “just part of ageing”—and it’s not something you have to endure. With early assessment and a proactive plan, you can remain active, strong, and mobile for years to come.

The MSK Doctors Menopause & Joint Health Clinic, powered by Regen PhD, offers cutting-edge diagnostics, patient-led care, and regenerative treatments in one holistic package. No GP referral is required, and consultations are available in London and Lincolnshire.

FAQs

Is joint pain a common symptom of menopause?
Yes. Up to 50% of women experience new or worsening joint pain during perimenopause and menopause, often due to hormonal changes that affect inflammation and cartilage health.

Which joints are most affected?
The knees, hips, hands, shoulders, and lower back are commonly affected—especially joints that bear weight or are used frequently in daily tasks.

Can regenerative medicine really help menopausal joint pain?
Yes. Regenerative treatments like PRP and hyaluronic acid injections can reduce inflammation, support cartilage, and improve joint function—often with fewer side effects than long-term medication.

How is this different from a traditional menopause clinic?
At MSK Doctors and Regen PhD, we focus specifically on the musculoskeletal effects of menopause, combining orthopaedic, hormonal, and regenerative expertise under one roof.

When should I seek help?
If you’re experiencing joint pain, stiffness, or swelling that’s affecting your quality of life—especially if you’re in your 40s or 50s—it’s time to get assessed. Early action can prevent long-term joint damage.