Menopause and Frozen Shoulder

Frozen shoulder, or adhesive capsulitis, presents as stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint. It typically progresses through three phases: freezing, frozen, and thawing. This condition can significantly impact daily activities and quality of life. Interestingly, there’s growing evidence suggesting that menopause may play a role in the development of frozen shoulder. 

Frozen shoulder occurs when the capsule surrounding the shoulder joint thickens and tightens, restricting movement. The exact cause is not always clear, but it is often associated with shoulder injuries or prolonged immobility. The freezing phase is marked by increasing pain and decreasing range of motion. In the frozen phase, pain may decrease, but stiffness remains severe, making movement difficult. The thawing phase involves gradual improvement and return of mobility. 

Menopause, typically occurring in women between the ages of 45 and 55, marks the end of menstruation and a decline in reproductive hormones, particularly estrogen. Estrogen is crucial for maintaining various bodily functions, including joint health. As estrogen levels drop, women may experience a range of symptoms, from hot flashes and mood swings to changes in bone and joint health. 

Research suggests that there may be a connection between menopause and the increased incidence of frozen shoulder. Several factors contribute to this association: 

1. Hormonal Changes: Estrogen has a role in maintaining joint and connective tissue health. Lower levels of estrogen during menopause can lead to decreased collagen production and altered connective tissue health. This may contribute to the development of conditions like frozen shoulder. 

2. Age-Related Changes: Menopause typically occurs during midlife, a time when degenerative changes in joints and connective tissues are more common. These age-related changes, combined with hormonal shifts, may increase the risk of developing frozen shoulder. 

3. Inflammatory Response: Menopause can alter the body’s inflammatory responses. Some studies suggest that changes in inflammatory markers during menopause could be linked to an increased risk of musculoskeletal disorders, including frozen shoulder. 

Physical therapy along with working with your health care provider is your first line for treatment of frozen shoulder.   We use stretching, strengthening exercises, and manual therapy to decrease shoulder pain and improve shoulder range of motion and strength.  We also work on strategies for preventing recurrence of frozen shoulder and improved joint health.   

Frozen shoulder can be a debilitating condition, and its association with menopause adds another layer of complexity. Understanding the interplay between hormonal changes and joint health can help in the timely diagnosis and management of frozen shoulder. If you’re navigating the challenges of menopause and experiencing shoulder pain, working with a physical therapist can ensure a comprehensive approach to treatment and improved quality of life. 

As specialists in Women’s Health Physical Therapy, we understand Menopause and Perimenopause and how women’s bodies are impacted by that. We offer a free 15 minute phone call to answer any questions you may have and help you feel confident you are in the correct place for healing. Click HERE to schedule your free consultation now!