Integrative Lifestyle Strategies for Osteoarthritis Management in Post-Menopausal Women: Insights on Exercise and Diet

INTRODUCTION: Osteoarthritis (OA) disproportionately affects postmenopausal women due to estrogen deficiency, which accelerates cartilage degradation, synovial inflammation, and bone remodeling. Existing pharmacological treatments, such as NSAIDs and COX-2 inhibitors, primarily provide symptomatic relief and carry gastrointestinal risks. This review aims to clarify the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying OA progression and highlight non-pharmacological interventions, specifically diet and physical exercise, as viable strategies for management in postmenopausal women. METHODS: A systematic literature review was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. Keywords related to osteoarthritis, inflammation, exercise, diet, and postmenopausal women were used. Articles providing mechanistic or clinical insights into OA management were included, with a focus on exercise and nutritional approaches. RESULTS: Aerobic and resistance training improve joint function, reduce pain, and modulate inflammatory mediators. Moderate-intensity exercise is particularly effective for advanced OA, while high-intensity regimens benefit early-stage disease. Dietary interventions, including omega- 3 fatty acids, calcium, and vitamin D, help mitigate inflammation and disease progression. However, awareness remains low: 87% of women were unaware of menopause-OA links, and 90% lacked knowledge about the inflammatory effects of dairy. DISCUSSION: The findings emphasise the need for personalised lifestyle-based interventions. While exercise and diet show clear therapeutic potential, gaps remain in public awareness, implementation strategies, and integration with hormonal therapies. CONCLUSION: An integrative approach combining targeted exercise, dietary modification, and hormonal balance offers a promising, low-risk strategy to manage OA in postmenopausal women.