The Musculoskeletal Syndrome of Menopause
The musculoskeletal syndrome of menopause refers to a collection of symptoms affecting the muscles, joints, and bones that arise due to hormonal changes, particularly the decline of estrogen, during menopause. This syndrome includes a variety of musculoskeletal issues, such as:
Muscle and joint pain (arthralgia)
Loss of lean muscle mass
Decreased bone density, leading to an increased risk of fractures
Tendon and ligament injuries
Adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder)
Cartilage fragility, contributing to osteoarthritis progression
These symptoms occur because estrogen maintains bone density, muscle mass, and joint health. As estrogen levels decline during menopause, these protective effects decrease, leading to an increased risk of musculoskeletal issues. Approximately 51% of people are born with ovaries. As estrogen levels decline and eventually stop during midlife, over 47 million women worldwide enter menopause each year. More than 70% of these women will experience musculoskeletal symptoms, with 25% becoming disabled by them from perimenopause through postmenopause.
References:
https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/13697137.2024.2380363#abstract
How Can Physiotherapy Help?
At Integrative Physio, physiotherapy can play a key role in managing the symptoms of musculoskeletal syndrome of menopause by focusing on personalized care and evidence-based strategies. Here’s how:
Improving Joint Mobility and Reducing Arthralgia: Manual therapy, joint mobilizations, and specific exercises can help reduce pain and stiffness in joints affected by estrogen decline, such as in arthralgia.
Strengthening Muscles and Preventing Muscle Mass Loss: Tailored strength training programs can help maintain and build muscle mass, which is crucial during menopause as muscle loss accelerates.
Bone Health and Density Maintenance: Weight-bearing exercises and resistance training are essential for maintaining bone density, and reducing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.
Managing Osteoarthritis Symptoms: Physiotherapists can guide patients through exercises to improve joint function, reduce pain, and prevent the progression of osteoarthritis.
Improving Posture and Balance: Balance training and posture correction can reduce the risk of falls, which becomes more important as bone density decreases.
Pain Management: Techniques such as acupuncture, dry needling, or soft tissue therapy can help manage chronic pain and discomfort associated with menopause.
Holistic Approach: Integrative Physio combines personalized treatment with lifestyle advice, including nutrition, massage therapy, and Traditional Chinese Medicine Acupuncture and physical activity guidance, to optimize overall health and quality of life during menopause.
By addressing these aspects, physiotherapy at Integrative Physio can help mitigate the impact of the musculoskeletal syndrome of menopause, improving mobility, strength, and daily function.