Joint pain as a symptom of endometriosis

Joint pain in endometriosis

Endometriosis is considered a gynecologic condition. However, it is now clear that endometriosis does not cause only localized symptoms limited to the female reproductive organs. Endometriosis is a systemic disease that causes severe, chronic symptoms in a significant number of those affected. In addition to well-known symptoms such as menstrual pain, abnormal bleeding, and reduced fertility, you may also experience joint pain. But how does endometriosis cause joint pain?

Endometriosis is a benign but chronic condition. It can be “silent,” meaning asymptomatic, or present with acute and also chronic, severe symptoms. In endometriosis, lesions composed of endometrium-like tissue grow outside the uterus. These endometriotic lesions enlarge over the course of the menstrual cycle and then bleed. As a result, adhesions, scarring, cyst formation, and chronic inflammation can develop. The lesions can occur on organs in the pelvis or elsewhere in the abdomen, including the peritoneum, diaphragm, and lungs. The pelvic nerves can also be affected. A distinction is made between superficial and deeply infiltrating endometriosis.

• Endometriotic lesions on the pelvic nerves: This can result in severe to very severe leg pain, which may also affect your joints.
• Diaphragmatic endometriosis: These lesions can cause shoulder pain that radiates into the fingers. Because lesions on the diaphragm most often occur on the right side, the right shoulder is usually affected.
• Chronic inflammation: This can lead to generalized pain that also involves the joints.
• Physical inactivity: Because of pain and coexisting conditions such as depression and fatigue, many people tend to withdraw. They often adopt protective postures and move too little. Lack of movement frequently leads to joint pain.