I'm 2 years into this first 5 year cycle and the past 1.5 was torture! I felt 90 years old in my body, though I'm only in my fifties. The constant pain was unbearable!
I lived in Chicago, IL at the time of my diagnosis, surgery, radiation treatment, etc. and have since moved to Phoenix, AZ this decision to switch to a warmer climate was based on the fact that I did not want to live in pain everyday and the cold Chicago Winters gave me the courage to take the leap! Another major change was to continue my Oncology care at the Mayo Clinic and incorporate Integrative Medicine into my treatment plan. What helped tremendously with the joint aches and pain side effects of the AI is my daily regiment of supplements (instead of medications which produces more side effects), Specifically Fish Oil, and weekly acupuncture. I can't express enough how beneficial acupuncture has been! Lastly, besides living as stress free as possible (which can greatly effect your joints as well), I made dietary changes, eating foods that fuel my body, support my systems, and protect & build my body from a cellular level to reduce inflammation. These are the things which has helped with the side effects of joint ache & pain as well as insomnia and horrific night sweats. I hope this info helps and you find relief. Stay strong, live well!