I also have OA.
Mostly in my knees. Oh heck do they hurt.
I can't take anti inflamitory meds as they upset my stomach. I have discovered the best rub. It's the Voltarol 12 hour gel. I'm really getting relief using this.
I've also printed off Excercises from the Arthritis Uk website and I'm working on them.
I'm also quite slim and have a good diet. I started with knee problems in my early 40s so for me it's had nothing to do with meno at all. I'm on HRT, I take Vit D and use a magnesium spray. I'm afraid OA is how it is and it's a case of managing things through excercise.
Have you had any physio. I have and also acupuncture through the NHS.
Not sure I can help that much, but I do understand how much it can hurt.
Mrs Brown.