Menopause and bone pain: what do those aches mean?

Does low bone density cause pain?

Bone loss can speed up as oestrogen levels fall around menopause. Over time, this can make bones more likely to break. But osteoporosis usually has no symptoms unless a bone breaks. A fracture in one of the bones in your spine, for example, can cause back pain. Achy joints on their own don’t tell you whether your bone density is low.

What if it’s your joints that ache?

Joint aches and stiffness can start in perimenopause and continue after menopause. They can have other causes too, including arthritis or injury. If joint pain is your main concern, our guide to menopause and joint pain explains what might help.

When should you get bone pain checked after menopause?

Speak to your GP if you have unexplained pain that isn’t going away or is getting worse. There are several possible causes. For example, very low vitamin D can lead to osteomalacia, a condition that can cause bone pain.

If you’ve recently had a fall or injury and the pain isn’t getting better, ask for an urgent GP appointment or contact NHS 111. If you’ve previously broken a bone after a minor fall, mention it to your GP – it can help them decide whether to assess your fracture risk or arrange a bone density scan.