Project 830 | Musculoskeletal Symptoms in Menopause: Patient and Clinician Perspectives

Managing Musculoskeletal Symptoms during Menopause: A Qualitative Study of Patient Experience and Clinician Perspectives

Background

Many people experience musculoskeletal symptoms such as joint pain, stiffness, muscle aches, or reduced mobility during midlife. These symptoms can occur for many reasons, but research shows that the menopause transition can both worsen existing musculoskeletal conditions and trigger new symptoms for the first time. Hormonal changes, mental wellbeing, sleep, and work‑related pressures can all interact in complex ways. This makes it difficult for patients and clinicians to understand what is causing symptoms, how best to manage them, and when specialist input is needed.

Although musculoskeletal problems are one of the most common reasons people consult primary care, we know surprisingly little about how menopause‑related symptoms are recognised, discussed, and managed in everyday practice. Patients often report not knowing whether their symptoms are “normal,” whether they should seek help, or what treatment options are available. Clinicians, meanwhile, have to balance multiple possible explanations for musculoskeletal symptoms, and may not always feel confident in identifying when menopause is playing a role.

Design

This study aims to develop a clearer understanding of how both patients and primary care clinicians experience and interpret musculoskeletal symptoms during menopause. Through in‑depth qualitative interviews, and focus groups, we will explore:
– how women make sense of their symptoms
– the impact on daily life, work, and wellbeing
– how clinicians assess and manage these symptoms
– what helps, and what creates uncertainty
– how primary care teams and patients communicate about menopause and musculoskeletal health

Patient Public Involvement and Benefit

PPI has informed this application and will be involved through to dissemination. We will ensure we reach out to include diverse and underserved communities. These insights will sit alongside complementary quantitative work analysing patterns in health records. Together, they will provide a richer, more complete picture of when musculoskeletal symptoms arise, how they are recorded, which patients seek help, and what treatments are offered.

Dissemination

The findings will directly inform the development of resources to support both patients and clinicians. These may include guidance on recognising menopause‑related musculoskeletal symptoms, tools to support conversations in consultations, and information to help people understand their options and manage symptoms earlier and more effectively.