Waking up stiff? Hips, hands, knees or shoulders grumbling in a way they never used to? There's a name you rarely hear: menopausal arthralgia — joint aches linked to the drop in oestrogen. It turns out oestrogen helps keep our joints comfortable and our tissues supple, so as it declines, stiffness and aches can move in — often worst first thing in the morning. It can be alarming, because it feels like ageing arrived overnight. But here's the encouraging part: movement is on your side. As counterintuitive as it feels when you're stiff, gentle, regular movement and strength work are generally good for joints rather than harmful — they keep everything moving and supported. So don't let the stiffness talk you into sitting still. Warm up gently, keep moving, and be kind to yourself in those first creaky minutes of the day. If a joint is hot, swollen, or keeps getting worse, talk to your doctor.
This is general information, not personal medical advice. If you have a health condition, or aren't sure whether an exercise is right for you, talk to your own doctor.