Which are common treatments for menopausal arthralgia?

Which are common treatments for menopausal arthralgia?

• A. NSAIDs and exercise
• B. Hormone therapy
• C. SSRIs
• D. Vaginal estrogen

Answer: (A)

Menopausal arthralgia is best managed with symptom relief and strategies that improve joint function. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs help by reducing inflammation and pain in affected joints, providing straightforward, widely used relief. Pairing this with regular exercise—combining aerobic activity, strength training, and flexibility work—strengthens muscles around the joints, improves range of motion, and lowers pain perception, making it a foundational nonpharmacologic approach. While hormone therapy can help with some menopausal symptoms, it isn’t primarily used for arthralgia and carries systemic risks; SSRIs address mood or vasomotor symptoms rather than joint pain; vaginal estrogen targets genitourinary symptoms and does not treat arthralgia.

Menopausal arthralgia is best managed with symptom relief and strategies that improve joint function. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs help by reducing inflammation and pain in affected joints, providing straightforward, widely used relief. Pairing this with regular exercise—combining aerobic activity, strength training, and flexibility work—strengthens muscles around the joints, improves range of motion, and lowers pain perception, making it a foundational nonpharmacologic approach. While hormone therapy can help with some menopausal symptoms, it isn’t primarily used for arthralgia and carries systemic risks; SSRIs address mood or vasomotor symptoms rather than joint pain; vaginal estrogen targets genitourinary symptoms and does not treat arthralgia.