2025-04-15 19:03:58

Joint pain due to decreased estrogen levels

Hi, I’m a woman in my late 20s.

Last summer, I went through a period of extreme dieting, and as a result, my period completely stopped. Even after 6 months, it didn’t come back, and I started experiencing really intense joint pain. I went to the OB-GYN, and they told me my estrogen levels had dropped to a level similar to that of women going through menopause.

I started taking hormone medication for about 3 months, and eventually, my period came back.
But even now, the joint pain hasn’t improved...

I used to lift weights regularly, and I kept training even after my period stopped.
Now, though, my shoulders, knees, and ankles feel especially bad.

So I’m wondering…
Once I stop taking the hormone medication and my period stabilizes again, will this joint pain get better too?
Do menopausal women usually feel relief from joint pain after hormone treatment? 😢

I’m also worried that I pushed too hard with weight training during that time, and that I might be left with long-term damage or side effects...
Would really appreciate an expert opinion on this 🙏💦

Dr.s Diagnosis

Okay, I understand your concerns. It sounds like you've been through a lot with the sudden drop in estrogen and the subsequent joint pain. Let's break this down. Firstly, estrogen plays a crucial role in joint health. It helps regulate inflammation and maintain cartilage health. When estrogen levels plummet, as in menopause or due to extreme dieting, joints can become more susceptible to inflammation and pain. Imagine estrogen as a lubricant for your joints; when it's gone, things start to grind. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) in menopausal women can sometimes alleviate joint pain, but it's not a guaranteed fix. Some women experience significant relief, while others see little to no improvement. It depends on individual factors. Now, regarding your situation: it's good that your period has returned with hormone medication. However, it's not surprising that the joint pain hasn't disappeared instantly. It can take time for your body to readjust and for the inflammation to subside. Additionally, weight training during a period of low estrogen could have put extra stress on your joints, potentially leading to some degree of injury or aggravation. Think of it like this: imagine you were running a car with low engine oil. Even after you add oil, the damage might not disappear immediately. It's possible that your joint pain will improve as your hormone levels stabilize naturally after stopping medication. However, I highly recommend that you consult an orthopedist or a sports medicine doctor for a thorough evaluation. They can assess the extent of any damage and recommend appropriate treatment options, which might include physical therapy, pain management strategies, or even imaging studies like an MRI to rule out any structural issues. Also, consider incorporating joint-friendly exercises like swimming or cycling and making sure you are getting enough calcium and Vitamin D. Good luck, and don't hesitate to seek further medical advice.