HRT just for joint pain?

[Makilda]

Hi all. I'm 51 and in menopause. I haven't had a period for almost two years. I did find that I was getting increasingly anxious and also some night sweats and hot flushes. I wanted to try herbal supplements first, and so for the last 8 months (ish) I've settled on a combo of red clover, St John's Wort, magnesium, and MenoPace everyday.

This has really worked for me and I feel fine EXCEPT for joint aching. My hips and legs are very, very achy and it's getting me down. I used to run and do yoga - I'm doing neither right now as I'm healing from a fracture.

My aches have increased since my exercise has dialled down, but I've got a feeling that I need to address this, even when I get back to full fitness.

I don't have a major issue with HRT, it's just that I've found an alternative that works for me, with no side effects or prescription, but the one symptom it's not helping with are these bloody pains.

Should I do HRT just for that? I was going to order an 8 pack of Evorel Conti to trial (my dr can't see me for weeks and I'm not waiting that long) to try, but thought I'd ask advice here first.

I went through perimenopause and my early postmenopausal years taking just supplements. It was the joint pain and the persistent vaginal dryness despite topical oestrogen that persuaded me to try HRT. It works, no more sore joints.

@cleowasmycat I am on Estradiol 0.06% gelan Utrogestan 100mg capsules

i have been significantly deficient in Vit D in the past and sorting it with supplements didn't have any noticeable impact on joint pain.

How many pumps of gel?

2 pumps (lowest dose) of gel

Tart Cherry capsules or Juice could be worth a try. It is often suggested for those suffering with gout pains - I have joint pains from necessary long term medication following breast cancer and it really helps.

HRT isn't doing anything for my joint aches. Although it has fixed my anxiety.
Am tempted by the collagen mentioned upthread.
Just to say that if you do take vit d make sure you take vitamin k with it, otherwise you can get calcium deposits in places other than your bones, which would be very bad.

Glad I came across this thread, I had my last period when I was 46, 5 years ago now. Have never been on HRT but do have early OA with joint pain in fingers, knees and a random elbow- awful memory too- so have been toying with asking about it.
Those of you who have had success with HRT for joint pain - what type are you on?

I have oestrogen gel 2 pumps and progesterone pill originally 100mg but now 200mg.

My OA in hands is definitely better but the other joint problems which I have had for much longer are not noticeably better - maybe a little

I started HRT 18 months ago, for bone health, and because of aching joints, and it has made such a difference! I have Mirena + Oestrogel, (2-3 pumps a day). I can walk and move freely again, and not feel so decrepit, creaky and in pain. It also helps relieve my plantar fasciitis - no idea why. Connective tissue issues, I guess?

The only other menopause symptom I had was brain fog, and it has helped with that too. I'm 55. Well worth a chat with your GP.

Hrt makes a massive difference to my joints op. Good luck 🤞

I had no idea I would suddenly ache like an old lady at 55. Might up my HRT to see if it helps

Thanks everyone, I thought I'd pop back to update.

My telephone appt with GP is next week so will ask about HRT. However, I've had 4 weeks now on Vit D (I think this WAS the main issue tbh), Marine Collegen, Vit E Oil and Turmeric.

I cannot tell you how much better I feel. The improvement so far is fantastic. My skin, joints and limbs feel so, so much better.

I really appreciate people sharing their experiences and listening to mine!

Thats very good news! What dosage of Vitamin D are you taking?

Thank you! I'm taking 1000 IU.