The impact of testosterone on men and women's osteoarthritis
Testosterone has a reputation for fueling macho behavior, but in truth, it's an essential hormone that both males and females produce. In women, it impacts sex drive, bone and muscle health, mood and energy, and the menstrual cycle and fertility. In men, it also regulates sex drive and bone and muscle mass and strength -- plus it impacts the production of sperm. Some of it is even converted into a form of estrogen called estradiol.
But there's more. New research shows that testosterone has an impact on knee and hand osteoarthritis (OA) in men and women. Using data on 8,600 folks, ages 45 and older, the researchers found that women with more total and free testosterone have significantly less risk of knee OA and chronic knee pain (not true in men). In contrast, higher levels of testosterone in men are associated with more severe hand OA (not so for women).
These findings indicate that women with severe knee or hand pain and OA may benefit from testosterone supplementation. However, testosterone creams, ointments, gels, or shots can cause weight gain, acne, hair growth on the body and face and mood changes and increase the risk of blood clots.
The good news: Women and men (as their levels fall with age) can help keep testosterone levels up with smart lifestyle choices: frequent aerobic and strength-training exercise; a diet with healthy proteins and fats and avoidance of excess alcohol, smoking, and environmental toxins like hormone-disrupting chemicals in plastics. For help adopting these testosterone-friendly habits, sign up for the free newsletter at LongevityPlaybook.com.
Health pioneer Michael Roizen, M.D., is chief wellness officer emeritus at the Cleveland Clinic and author of four No. 1 New York Times bestsellers. Check out his latest, "The Great Age Reboot: Cracking the Longevity Code for a Younger Tomorrow," and find out more at www.longevityplaybook.com. Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Mike at questions@longevityplaybook.com.
(c)2023 Michael Roizen, M.D.
Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
(c) 2025 Michael Roizen, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
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