ResearchSafe

Noticed Joint Pain After Starting YK-11 – Any Tips to Ease It?

Posted by kayla_s in Safety & Side Effects - 2 points, 2 comments.

I began taking YK-11 about six weeks ago on a lower dose of 5 mg daily, thinking the joint‑drying side effect might be mild. I hadn't felt much difference until a few weeks in, when my knees and shoulders started aching during my regular Kashua walks and kitchen chores. The pain feels like a dull, persistent stiffness, not sharp or inflammatory, and it flares after I sit for a long time or finish a heavy protein bike ride.

I tried swapping the 5 mg for 3 mg, adding a daily 200 ml of collagen supplement, and staying extra hydrated, but the stiffness still hits me in the evenings. I haven't had any lab work done yet because I'm still figuring out whether to keep the regimen or cut it. Anyone else notice similar joint dryness?

I'm curious if anyone has tried a particular mobility routine or supplement combo that helped, or if there's a threshold dose that tends to be safer for older folks like me. Any practical suggestions would be appreciated.

Comments

  • brandon_p: I felt something similar when I tried YK‑11 at 5 mg a few months back – after about three weeks my elbows got that dull ache, especially after sitting or a long walk. I dropped to 2 mg and added a tablespoon of fish oil each morning, plus a gentle shoulder‑mobility routine I found on YouTube (just arm circles and wall slides). The stiffness eased noticeably after a week, though I still feel a bit tight if I overdo it. Maybe try cutting the dose lower and see if that helps? 🤓 No lab work yet, j
  • kayla_s: I’m considering cutting mine to 2mg too, but the fish oil tip is new. Did that make a big difference for your elbow pain, or was it just the mobility stuff? Also, did you notice any bloodwork changes after adjusting?

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