Joint Aches

I have been really struggling with shoulder pain and what has turned out to be referred pain in my wrist. Simple things like lifting a book and hooking a bra have become monumental problems.

Friends suggested it was my rotator cuff and that I would probably need surgery, but the orthopedic surgeon disagreed with my friends' diagnosis. He said, after x-rays and an exam, that he thought it was a frozen shoulder. Who knew such a ailment could happen? It turns out that I have been protecting my neck from the chronic pain I have had since a discectomy. Though, protection was really more like pain avoidance, and I did that by not moving my shoulder. I didn't move my shoulder because every time I did, it hurt, and I'm no dummy.

The only good thing about all this has been that I learned that the reason for the pain wasn't just because I was getting older. Joint pain is not a natural consequence of aging. Among women, hormonal imbalance and chronic inflammation are far more often the culprits.

Chronic inflammation prevents cell regeneration and repair and gradually tears down tissue including those in the joints. Reduced levels of estrogen can contribute to the problem. Estrogen acts as a natural anti-inflammatory. When levels fall off prior to and during menopause, we can begin to experience the ill effects of chronic inflammation.

Diet can cause chronic inflammation. One that is high in carbs and sugars and low in essential fatty acids prolongs high levels of insulin which disrupts cellular metabolism and spreads inflammation.

Stress is also a factor. The hormone cortisol is released when we are under stress, and too much cortisol spreads inflammation.

Lastly, when we stop moving something to prevent pain somewhere else, we can and will get into trouble, and the resolution is horrifyingly painful exercise, doing over and over just what are the most painful movements.

The key here is prevention---moving all our parts on a regular basis and lubrication of the joints. Essential fatty acids are very effective at fighting inflammation. You can increase your omega-3 intake by eating fish, but be careful to choose smaller species, like tilapia, that are low in mercury.

Lifestyle changes like stress relief and moderate exercise can help regulate cortisol levels and reduce the inflammation in your body. A regular exercise program will also help you maintain a healthy weight and prevent excess wear and tear on your hips and knees.

In the mean time, I am on anti-inflammatory medication and really painful exercise. I'll let you know how it goes.