Part 1 of 6: Overview
Low T and Pain
When you hear the term “joint pain,” you may be likely to think of arthritis. Arthritis can cause both pain and swelling (inflammation) in joints, which are the areas where bones in the body meet.
Arthritis isn’t the only possible cause of chronic pain. Hormonal imbalances, such as those in low testosterone (low T), may contribute to these types of issues. The key is to undergo a proper evaluation to determine whether your pain is associated with low T, arthritis or an unrelated medical condition.
Part 2 of 6: Low T Symptoms
Common Symptoms of Low T
Low T develops when testosterone levels decrease in the body. This sex hormone is the primary one of its kind in the male body. According to the Hormone Health Network, low testosterone may be diagnosed if your testosterone level is under 300 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL) of blood. While the natural aging process can lead to gradual drops in testosterone, it’s not normal to experience a significant decrease over a short period of time.
Some of the most common symptoms of low T include:
- excessive fatigue
- loss of sex drive
- infertility
- anxiety and depression
- enlarged breasts
- weight gain
In addition to its role in the male reproductive system, testosterone also helps maintain bone health.
Part 3 of 6: Weight & Pain
Weight and Joint Pain
Arthritis is known for joint pain, but it comes in different forms with varying causes. The two main forms are osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). RA is an autoimmune disease. On the other hand, OA develops over time due to wear and tear on your joints. While it’s possible to have both low T and arthritis at the same time, testosterone problems are unlikely to cause RA. However, if your low T leads to excessive weight gain, you may be at a higher risk of developing OA.
When caused by excessive weight gain, joint pain is most likely to occur in the knees, hips, and back. Still, pain may be experienced at any point where bones meet. Some arthritis patients can also have pain in the toes, wrists, and fingers.
Part 4 of 6: Osteoporosis
Low T and Osteoporosis
One of the long-term risks of low T is osteoporosis. Unlike arthritis, osteoporosis is a disease in which your bones become fragile. Testosterone maintains bone density, so low T may contribute to osteoporosis.
According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, osteoporosis can be identified using a bone mineral density (BMD) test. The test can compare your bone density to the norm. The more your BMD deviates from the norm, the more severe and more established your osteoporosis.
Maintaining bone density is important to preventing a loss of bone mass, as well as subsequent fractures. Unlike joint pain, osteoporosis pain typically only occurs when you develop bone fractures. You may also experience back pain due to weakened vertebra. Recovering after fractures can be painful. While this can feel similar to joint pain, osteoporosis pain is not the same as arthritis.
Part 5 of 6: Solutions
Solutions for Both Low T and Achy Joints
Testosterone replacement therapy is the most common form of low T treatment. Depending on your prescription, it may be taken orally or used topically as a patch or gel. Not only does hormone therapy help improve low sex drive and energy, it can also increase bone density. Over time, you may find it easier to manage your weight and take pressure off achy joints. These treatments aren’t without risk, and they should not be used in men with a history of prostate cancer.
While low T treatments may help improve bone density and weight management, these medications won’t alleviate joint pain on the spot. If you experience regular joint pain, you need separate treatment. Acetaminophen and ibuprofen are among the most common over-the-counter pain relievers, and they also come in prescription strength. Regular exercise, though difficult at first, can go a long way in preventing future joint pain.
Part 6 of 6: Outlook
Outlook
When it comes to joint pain and low T, the two conditions aren’t necessarily related. However, it’s possible to have both at once. Men who are obese are also at a greater risk of developing OA from excess pressure on the joints. Feeling better is dependent on treating both conditions. Low T therapies are unlikely to alleviate joint pain on their own. See your doctor on a regular basis to make sure you’re getting the right treatments so you can move in comfort.
