Knee Pain: Causes, Hormone Supplements, and Dietary Tips

Leg fatigue?

Hello: My mother's knee joints feel sore whenever she stands for a long time.
Could this be due to joint degeneration? She usually takes calcium supplements and glucosamine.
Can my mother take hormone supplements? She has high blood pressure and diabetes; is it safe for her to take hormones? What dietary considerations should she keep in mind? Thank you.

Yue, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2002/09/18

Dr. Lin Mingxing reply Family Medicine

Based on your age, your mother is likely at least in her fifties or sixties, which means she is probably post-menopausal.
Discomfort in the knee joints could be due to osteoarthritis, degenerative joint disease, or inflammation of the ligaments and soft tissues.
It is best to have a diagnosis made by an orthopedic specialist.

For prevention and maintenance, it is recommended to consider a supplement containing glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate.
If there is no family history of breast cancer or ovarian cancer, and if she has undergone breast screening with no suspicious findings, and does not have severe liver disease, she may generally consider hormone replacement therapy.
However, for patients with hypertension or heart disease, it is advisable to seek further evaluation from a physician before self-treating.

Reply Date: 2002/09/18

More Info

Knee pain, particularly in older adults, is often associated with joint degeneration, commonly known as osteoarthritis. This condition can lead to discomfort, especially after prolonged periods of standing or walking. Your mother's experience of knee discomfort after standing for extended periods could indeed be indicative of such degeneration.
In terms of dietary supplements, calcium and glucosamine, which your mother is already taking, are beneficial for joint health. Calcium is essential for maintaining bone density, while glucosamine may help in maintaining cartilage health and potentially alleviating joint pain. However, the effectiveness of glucosamine can vary from person to person, and it may take several weeks to notice any improvement.

Regarding hormone supplements, it’s crucial to approach this with caution, especially given your mother's medical history of hypertension and diabetes. Hormonal treatments, such as estrogen therapy, can have various effects on the body, including potential impacts on blood pressure and blood sugar levels. Therefore, it is essential for her to consult with her healthcare provider before starting any hormone supplements. The healthcare provider can assess her overall health, consider her current medications, and determine if hormone therapy is appropriate for her situation.

In terms of dietary recommendations, a balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods can be beneficial for joint health. Here are some dietary tips that may help alleviate knee pain:
1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Foods rich in omega-3s, such as fatty fish (salmon, mackerel), walnuts, and flaxseeds, can help reduce inflammation in the body.

2. Fruits and Vegetables: A diet high in fruits and vegetables provides antioxidants, which can combat oxidative stress and inflammation. Berries, cherries, spinach, and kale are particularly beneficial.

3. Whole Grains: Incorporating whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, and whole wheat bread can help maintain a healthy weight, which is crucial for reducing stress on the knees.

4. Lean Proteins: Including lean proteins such as chicken, turkey, beans, and legumes can support muscle health, which is important for joint stability.

5. Hydration: Staying well-hydrated is essential for joint lubrication. Encourage your mother to drink plenty of water throughout the day.

6. Limit Processed Foods: Reducing the intake of processed foods, sugars, and saturated fats can help lower inflammation levels in the body.

7. Weight Management: If your mother is overweight, even a modest weight loss can significantly reduce the stress on her knees and alleviate pain.

8. Calcium and Vitamin D: Since she is already taking calcium supplements, ensure she is also getting enough vitamin D, which is crucial for calcium absorption. Foods like fortified dairy products, fatty fish, and egg yolks can help.

In conclusion, while dietary supplements and certain foods can support joint health and potentially alleviate knee pain, it is essential for your mother to consult her healthcare provider before making any significant changes to her supplement regimen, especially considering her existing health conditions. A tailored approach that includes dietary modifications, regular physical activity (as tolerated), and medical guidance will be the most effective way to manage her knee pain and overall health.

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