My sister has been experiencing muscle pain. Can anyone help?

Question

For the past four years she has been experiencing the following symptoms: Pain and stiffness in most joints especially knees, hips and most recently ankles; constant muscle aches and pains around back of thighs and hips; tenderness and swelling in tendons/ligaments; general skin sensitivity; constant tiredness(extreme at times), lack of energy and motivation, sleep disturbances and mild headaches. Doctors visits and blood work have not resulted in any diagnosis. Doctor believes that symptoms are related to menopause. She is 47 but has not had menopause yet. The onset of these symptoms has been gradual and they have become more constant and severe in the past 6 months, though not debilitating.

Has anyone experienced similar symptoms and if so, what is the diagnosis and has there been any effective treatment? If this is related to menopause, do the symptoms eventually go away or at least lessen?

I have told her to start doing yoga and get some acupuncture. What do you think?

Answer 1

your sister is on verge of change of life (menopause) but also may be lacking in iron and may be slightly anemic. also a possibility of onset of rheumatoid arthritis this dose happen as we all get older. cod liver oil and iron supplements may help also heat sprays/pads to keep joints warm esp in colder seasons. yoga will help in easy to maintain positions without over stretching acupuncture is a less effective solution  but may help in reliving soreness in joints or to increase blood flow  

Answer 2

I have joint laxity  problems, which is worse in my knees. It just simply meens that my joints are too flexible and this VERY painful. It tends to be worse in my knees because of weight. She may have this, i think your best bet though is to go to an ortheopedic, they are the best thibng for joints.  

Answer 3

Maybe something autoimmune? Chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia?