Ep 200 The Musculoskeletal Syndrome of Menopause: What to Know and Do

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Impact of Menstrual Cycle and Menopause on Fibromyalgia and Chronic Pain and introduction to a proposed new syndrome, the Musculoskeletal Syndrome of Menopause.

This episode delves into the connection between hormones, fibromyalgia, and other chronic pain conditions like migraines and endometriosis, emphasizing the significant impact of a woman's menstrual cycle, perimenopause, and menopause on chronic pain. Various studies and polls on symptom severity during different menstrual phases and post-menopause are discussed. The crucial role of estrogen in maintaining musculoskeletal health is elaborated, along with the negative consequences of estrogen decline, such as increased inflammation, bone loss, muscle weakness, and osteoarthritis. The episode also covers the benefits and risks of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in alleviating these issues, touching on the historical trends and evolving practices in HRT usage. A comprehensive approach to managing menopause-related symptoms, including nutrition, exercise, and personalized medical advice, is encouraged. The episode concludes by highlighting upcoming discussions on studies involving hormone therapy for fibromyalgia patients.

00:00 Introduction to Fibromyalgia and Hormones
00:20 Impact of Menstrual Cycle on Chronic Pain
01:16 Fibromyalgia and Menopause
01:27 Musculoskeletal Syndrome of Menopause
02:36 Estrogen's Role in Musculoskeletal Health
06:39 Managing Sarcopenia and Muscle Loss
08:41 Osteoporosis and Bone Health
13:58 Hormone Replacement Therapy Trends
17:15 Hormone Therapy Risks and Benefits
26:06 Hormone Therapy and Mental Health
28:32 Conclusion and Upcoming Topics

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When I started this podcast and YouTube Channel—and the book that came before it—I had my patients in mind. Office visits are short, but understanding complex, often misunderstood conditions like fibromyalgia takes time. That’s why I created this space: to offer education, validation, and hope. If you’ve been told fibromyalgia “isn’t real” or that it’s “all in your head,” know this—I see you. I believe you. This podcast aims to affirm your experience and explain the science behind it. Whether you live with fibromyalgia, care for someone who does, or are a healthcare professional looking to better support patients, you’ll find trusted, evidence-based insights here, drawn from my 29+ years as an MD.

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