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The Surprising Link Between Menopause, Low Estrogen, and Pain: Why Seeing A Naturopathic Doctor Could Help

  • Writer: Madison Fandel
    Madison Fandel
  • 48 minutes ago
  • 3 min read

By: Dr. Madison Fandel, ND, MSCP | Menopause Practitioner

Follow me on socials @drmadisonfandel

A lineup of skincare products with text that reads: "How I Healed My Skin Naturally with Naturopathic Medicine And PRP: And How You Could Too. Written by: Dr. Madison Fandel, Naturopathic Doctor"

When Joints Start Complaining


Menopause brings a whirlwind of changes; hot flashes, mood swings, sleep troubles...but there’s one symptom that often catches women by surprise: joint pain.


If you’ve noticed stiffness or aching in your knees, hips, or hands during menopause, you’re not alone. Studies show that nearly half of women experience some form of joint or muscle pain during this time. For some, it’s temporary; for others, it lingers and impacts daily comfort.


So, what’s really going on? Let's get into it!


Disclaimer:

This content is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, naturopathic doctor, or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or health concern. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read here.


Estrogen: Your Joint’s Best Friend


Estrogen isn’t just a reproductive hormone, it’s a powerful protector of cartilage, bone, and connective tissue. During menopause, estrogen levels decline sharply, and this sudden drop can disrupt the balance in your joints.


Estrogen helps cartilage maintain elasticity and fluidity, which allows your joints to move smoothly. When estrogen levels fall, cartilage may lose its ability to “bounce back,” leading to stiffness, soreness, and increased wear-and-tear.


Research even suggests that estrogen replacement therapy may help improve joint comfort and slow cartilage degeneration — highlighting the hormone’s vital role in musculoskeletal health.



Stronger Bones, Happier Joints:


Bone health is another area where estrogen shines. This hormone helps preserve bone density by supporting calcium absorption and reducing bone breakdown.


When estrogen declines, bones can become more fragile — a key reason why postmenopausal women are at higher risk for osteoporosis and osteoarthritis. Interestingly, women receiving estrogen therapy often show fewer degenerative bone changes, suggesting that restoring hormonal balance can also help protect joint integrity.


Estrogen: The Natural Inflammation Fighter


Inflammation plays a big role in joint pain, and estrogen acts as a natural anti-inflammatory. It helps regulate immune responses and keeps inflammation in check.

Have you ever heard of women with arthritis feeling better during pregnancy? That’s largely due to higher estrogen levels at that time. When estrogen dips, inflammation can flare up, worsening joint discomfort — especially for those already predisposed to arthritis or chronic pain.


Hormones and the Pain Connection


Estrogen doesn’t just influence joint structure — it also affects how your body perceives pain. It interacts with pain receptors and nerve pathways, helping to “turn down” pain signals.


And it’s not alone in this work. Testosterone, another key hormone, supports tissue repair and further reduces pain sensitivity. Together, these hormones act as your body’s natural pain regulators.

Menopause: More Than Just Hot Flashes


Menopause is a full-body transition. Beyond hormonal shifts, changes in sleep, mood, and stress levels can all amplify pain perception. Fatigue and poor rest can heighten pain sensitivity, while mood changes can make discomfort feel more intense.

So, if you’re noticing that aches and pains seem to hit harder during menopause, it’s not just “in your head” — your hormones, nervous system, and inflammation levels are all deeply interconnected.


Supporting Joint Health Naturally

If you’re experiencing menopausal joint pain, know that there are natural and effective ways to find relief. 


As a naturopathic doctor, I take a holistic approach that may include:

  • Comprehensive hormone testing to assess estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone balance

  • Lifestyle and nutritional support to reduce inflammation naturally

  • Targeted supplementation (such as omega-3s, collagen, and magnesium)

  • Bioidentical hormone therapy (BHRT), when appropriate, to restore hormonal harmony

Let’s Work Together Toward Pain-Free Living


Menopausal joint pain is more common than most women realize, but the good news is — it’s manageable. Understanding the link between estrogen and joint health is the first step toward relief and renewed vitality.


If you’re struggling with joint aches or wondering whether Menopause Hormone Therapy is right for you, I’d love to help.


 Schedule a consultation, and together we’ll explore your options for a more balanced, comfortable, and active life.


Photo of Dr. Madison Fandel, ND with text that reads: "About the Author: Dr. Madison Fandel is a seasoned Naturopathic Doctor and Menopause Society Certified Practitioner with an unwavering commitment to empowering women to lead vibrant, fulfilling lives. She believes in harnessing the body’s innate ability to heal itself through natural methods, with a special focus on hormonal balance and replacement therapies. Understanding that hormonal imbalances can impact women physically, emotionally, and mentally, Dr. Fandel takes a comprehensive and personalized approach to address these concerns. Her evidence-based methods are complemented by her compassionate care, ensuring that each patient’s unique needs are met with empathy and expertise."

Follow me on socials @drmadisonfandel



 
 
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