exploring the connection between menopause and arthritis
research continues to shed light on the connection between arthritis and menopause, but more needs to be done to help those who have both conditions.
3 minute read
research indicates that more than 70 per cent of women transitioning to menopause will experience musculoskeletal symptoms, including joint pain and stiffness.
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world menopause month throughout october has helped raise awareness about a significant life transition affecting women worldwide. coming on the heels of september’s arthritis awareness month, it is an opportune time to shed light on the often-overlooked link between menopause and arthritis.
many people recognize the familiar symptoms of menopause—hot flashes, mood swings, and sleep disturbances—but what often goes unnoticed is its alarming connection to arthritis. arthritis is a chronic, incurable disease characterized by inflammation in the joints or other areas of the body. it can also cause pain, swelling, and stiffness and lead to significant and often irreparable damage, resulting in loss of function and disability.
so, what’s the connection between arthritis and menopause?
during menopause, the body’s production of reproductive hormones plummets. this decline causes a myriad of symptoms and may, in fact, heighten the risk of developing arthritis. estrogen plays a crucial role in regulating the immune system and controlling inflammation. when its levels drop, inflammation can escalate, leading to cartilage degradation and the onset or flare-up of arthritis.
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research indicates that more than 70 per cent of women transitioning to menopause will experience musculoskeletal symptoms, including joint pain and stiffness. the loss of estrogen also contributes to decreased bone density, making individuals more susceptible to osteoporosis—a condition that further compromises bone health.
some recent studies have begun to shed light on the role of hormones in the risk and progression of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and lupus:
- osteoarthritis, the most prevalent type of arthritis, is characterized by joint inflammation and cartilage breakdown. it commonly affects knees, shoulders, and hips. the incidence of osteoarthritis increases around menopause. research on hormone therapy, particularly estrogen, has yielded mixed results.
- rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune condition that can cause inflammation, joint pain and stiffness, peaks in incidence during menopause. while the disease often improves during pregnancy, it can flare postpartum, indicating hormonal influences. menopause heightens the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis and exacerbates disease severity. early menopause is linked to increased risk. although hormone therapy has been considered as a strategy to help manage rheumatoid arthritis after menopause, results have been largely unsatisfactory.
- lupus is an autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks healthy tissues, with arthritis as a common symptom. lupus is typically diagnosed before menopause, and an earlier onset of menopause correlates with a higher lupus risk. interestingly, menopause may reduce the severity and progression of the disease, although the exact relationship remains unclear.
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the limited research available in all areas leaves many questions unanswered, highlighting the need for further studies to provide better guidance for those at risk. without adequate funding and support, millions will continue to experience symptoms without the answers they need or treatments that can help.
knowing there is some kind of connection between menopause and arthritis underscores the importance of taking joint symptoms seriously in peri- and post-menopausal women. while arthritis has no cure, timely intervention can be essential in managing pain, reducing inflammation and preserving joint function. with proper medical care, lifestyle changes and support networks, those with arthritis can lead active, fulfilling lives despite their diagnosis.
the impact of arthritis
notably, nearly 60 per cent of canadian adults with arthritis are women—and more women report having arthritis than osteoporosis, diabetes, heart disease, cancer and stroke combined. today, approximately 3.6 million women are living with arthritis in canada, and without decisive action, that number could soar to nearly 5.5 million by 2045.
globally, hundreds of millions are impacted by arthritis, a leading cause of disability. the consequences ripple through social interactions, mental health and financial security, making it a multifaceted issue that society cannot afford to ignore.
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arthritis is not just a medical condition; it’s a crisis that demands immediate attention. untreated, it can lead to irreparable damage to joints and organs, dramatically impacting quality of life. the stark reality is that women’s health research is grossly underfunded, in this case, hindering our understanding of how menopause affects arthritis and the broader implications for women’s health. we must demand increased funding and attention to this critical area. by prioritizing research, we can develop targeted preventive measures and treatments that not only alleviate suffering but also empower individuals to reclaim their lives.
so, as we conclude two months focused on arthritis and menopause, respectively, let’s leverage the awareness and momentum that has begun. the time for life-changing research into the very real connection between arthritis and menopause is now. the health and well-being of millions depend on it.
trish barbato is president and ceo of arthritis society canada and co-founder of the menopause foundation of canada.
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