Musculoskeletal health

MUSCULOSKELETAL SYMPTOMS

• Menopausal symptoms include arthralgia, particularly in the small joints, and this can improve with HRT.
• Data from the WHI trial showed significant improvements in joint aches with HRT use.

OSTEOARTHRITIS

• There is evidence that oestrogen replacement may reduce the development of osteoarthritis after the menopause, leading to fewer joint replacements in oestrogen users.

SARCOPENIA

• Ageing and hormonal decline appear to have an adverse effect on muscle ageing.
• Regular physical activity appears to maintain muscle mass and balance.

• The evidence on the effect of HRT on improving muscle strength has been conflicting.
• One meta-analysis which included 23 studies showed that post-menopausal women who received HRT had 5% greater muscle strength than those who did not receive HRT. However, another meta-analysis did not show a significant beneficial or detrimental effect for HRT on muscle mass.
• NICE says there is limited evidence that HRT may improve muscle mass and strength.