As chiropractors, we often see patients who come to us looking for relief from ongoing muscle aches, joint pain, or stiffness. While these symptoms can certainly result from injuries, posture, or lifestyle habits, there’s another potential cause many people overlook: their medications.
Common Medications Linked to Muscle or Joint Pain
1. Statins (Cholesterol-Lowering Medications)
- Used for: Managing high cholesterol to reduce heart disease risk.
- Examples: Atorvastatin (Lipitor), Simvastatin (Zocor), Rosuvastatin (Crestor)
- Possible side effect: Muscle aches, weakness, cramps, and joint pain.
2. Certain Blood Pressure Medications
- Used for: Controlling high blood pressure.
- Examples: Beta-blockers (e.g., Metoprolol), ACE inhibitors (e.g., Lisinopril)
- Possible side effect: Generalized muscle pain, cramping, and fatigue.
3. Aromatase Inhibitors (Cancer Treatment)
- Used for: Hormone-related breast cancer in postmenopausal women.
- Examples: Anastrozole (Arimidex), Letrozole (Femara)
- Possible side effect: Joint stiffness, muscle pain, and bone discomfort.
4. Bisphosphonates (Osteoporosis Treatment)
- Used for: Preventing or treating osteoporosis and bone density loss.
- Examples: Alendronate (Fosamax), Risedronate (Actonel)
- Possible side effect: Bone, joint, and muscle pain.
5. Fluoroquinolone Antibiotics
- Used for: Treating bacterial infections.
- Examples: Ciprofloxacin (Cipro), Levofloxacin (Levaquin)
- Possible side effect: Tendon pain, joint discomfort, and muscle aches, sometimes leading to more serious issues.
6. Corticosteroids (Anti-Inflammatory Medications)
- Used for: Reducing inflammation in conditions like asthma, arthritis, and autoimmune diseases.
- Examples: Prednisone, Hydrocortisone
- Possible side effect: Muscle weakness, joint pain, and reduced bone density with long-term use.
Why It’s Important to Talk with Your Doctor
If you suspect your medication might be causing muscle or joint discomfort, it’s essential to discuss this with your prescribing doctor. Never stop taking a prescribed medication without medical guidance. Your doctor may be able to adjust the dose, switch to a different medication, or suggest supportive strategies to help reduce side effects.
Sometimes what feels like “just getting older” or “sleeping wrong” can actually be a reaction to a medication your body doesn’t tolerate well.
How Chiropractic Care Can Help
Chiropractic care can support your body’s ability to manage muscle and joint pain, whether it’s caused by medications, injuries, or lifestyle factors. Through adjustments, stretching, posture guidance, and gentle exercise recommendations, we help many patients find relief while working collaboratively with their healthcare providers.