While menopause may not directly cause nerve pain, hormonal shifts, metabolic changes, and increased inflammation during this phase can contribute to its development. Studies found that postmenopausal women are at higher risk of peripheral neuropathy, a condition when the nerves in the body’s extremities are damaged, resulting in nerve pain.
Hormonal shifts during menopause can impact the peripheral nerves, which are crucial for managing sensations and movements of the extremities. Decreasing estrogen levels can impair the function of these nerves, potentially causing abnormal sensations or nerve pain.
Metabolic changes during menopause can cause weight gain. Higher insulin levels and insulin resistance associated with this weight gain can lead to the development of type 2 diabetes, a condition that may contribute to nerve pain.
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can help manage nerve pain by balancing hormone levels and alleviating other symptoms of menopause.