Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)

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  • With Mayo Clinic endocrinologist

    Todd B. Nippoldt, M.D.

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Question

Hypothyroidism: Does it cause joint pain?

Can hypothyroidism cause joint pain? I have hypothyroidism and have been experiencing severe arthritis-like pain in my shoulders and hips.

Answer

from Todd B. Nippoldt, M.D.

For some people, hypothyroidism can contribute to joint and muscle problems.

Specifically, hypothyroidism may lead to:

  • Muscle aches, tenderness and stiffness, especially in the shoulders and hips
  • Joint pain and stiffness
  • Swelling of the knee joint and small joints in the hands and feet
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome

Reducing pain
Although common over the counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil, others) or acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) can help with pain, adequate thyroid hormone replacement is the primary treatment and often dramatically reduces pain.

When to see your doctor
Keep in mind that people with the most common form of hypothyroidism have an increased risk of developing other autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis. If pain, stiffness and swelling don't improve after adequate thyroid treatment, consult your doctor. He or she may consider other possible causes of your joint pain.

Next question
Thyroid disease: Can it affect a person's mood?
References
  1. Jameson JL, et al. Disorders of the thyroid gland. In: Longo DL, et al. Harrison's Online. 18th ed. New York, N.Y.: McGraw-Hill; 2012. http://www.accessmedicine.com/content.aspx?aID=2877356&searchStr=hypothyroidism. Accessed Feb 25, 2013.
  2. Wolff K, et al. Endocrine, metabolic, nutritional, and genetic diseases. In: Wolff K, et al. Fitzpatrick's Color Atlas and Synopsis of Clinical Dermatology. 6th ed. New York, N.Y.: McGraw-Hill; 2009. http://www.accessmedicine.com/content.aspx?aID=5189255&searchStr=myxedema. Accessed Feb. 25, 2013.
  3. Tagoe CE, et al. Rheumatic manifestations of autoimmune thyroid disease: The other autoimmune disease. The Journal of Rheumatology. 2012;39:1125.
AN00069 March 5, 2013

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