Taking the pain out of the menopause: are menopausal women overlooking their joint health?
These are the words from the providers of GoPo supplements. You may have read my earlier post about my injury earlier this year and how it exacerbated my already present joint pain
I accepted a trial of GOPO® supplements derived from natural rosehip.
The menopause has a lot to answer for, especially in my experience. Hot flushes, night sweats, loss of libido and low mood are all commonly recognised menopausal symptoms. Yet, joint pain affects as many as 40% of all menopausal women[i] and joint stiffness is the most common contributor to impairment of quality of life and work in women of a menopausal age.
Menopausal joint pain, is commonly mistaken as an inevitable part of the ‘aging’ process and whilst women may seek help for other symptoms, they struggle on with aching and painful joints. For many this results in a downward spiral of taking less exercise, weight gain and further joint pain.
Dr Kathy Abernethy Chair of the British Menopause Society and Menopause Expert comments;
“Whilst more women are now seeking help for the menopause, joint health is often ignored resulting in a significant impact on quality of life. It is important that women consider treating all symptoms to maintain their overall wellbeing. Simple lifestyle changes such as low impact exercise, changes to diet and taking supplements may help, particularly in the early stages”
The symptoms of the menopause usually start to appear between 45-55 years of age. However, according to consultant rheumatologist Dr. Rod Hughes;
“Menopausal joint pain, can start several years before other menopausal symptoms. This is due to oestrogen levels starting to decline several years before the menopause, causing a reduction in collagen, loss of cartilage and an increase in inflammation leading to joint pain and stiffness.”
Reading this information provided by the suppliers I was really surprised to read this. I have endured quite severe joint pain for several years and it was one of the contributory factors to make my decision to retire early. I always thought my pain was wear and tear after years of being on my feet for very long shifts as a nurse. Even up until receiving these supplements I did not think the pain was menopause related at all.
With this new found realisation I was happy to trial this natural supplement. My first post explained that since I commenced the supplements I had experienced less of the burning pain that began after my fall in January of last year.
I am now nearly 3 months into taking the supplement and still my knee feels much more comfortable, the burning pain which was present daily prior to starting these supplements, is still gone. Initially there was no change in my chronic back pain, however again I seem to feel less back pain symptoms. I have to be honest and admit to have forgotten to take the supplements on occasions but am happy with the results.
As I stated in my earlier post, If you are interested in this supplement GOPO® Joint Health is available from Boots, supermarkets and independent chemists nationwide £18.99 for 120 capsules and £28.49 for 200 capsules. www.GoPo.co.uk
Please share this post if you think it could help you or someone you know, maybe one of your older female friends or family members have the same joint pain struggles and this could help them.
Keep healthy and happy
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