Why is shoulder pain linked to menopause?

Shoulder pain is linked to menopause because estrogen receptors are present in joint tissues, and declining estrogen levels during menopause can lead to joint pain and conditions like frozen shoulder.

What is the role of estrogen in joint health?

Estrogen helps reduce inflammation and friction in our joints. Its decline can affect cartilage turnover and lead to increased joint pain, especially in women experiencing menopause.

Can HRT help with menopausal joint pain?

Yes, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can help relieve many menopausal symptoms, including joint pains, although more research is needed to confirm its long-term effectiveness for conditions like hand osteoarthritis.

Home / Health / Shoulder Pain Linked to Menopause: Doctors Apologize

Shoulder Pain Linked to Menopause: Doctors Apologize

2 Feb

•

Summary

Shoulder pain is frequently linked to menopause and hormonal shifts.
Estrogen receptors are present in joint tissues, influencing pain.
Hormone replacement therapy may help alleviate menopausal joint pain.

Shoulder Pain Linked to Menopause: Doctors Apologize

A growing understanding highlights the connection between shoulder pain and menopause. Hormone health specialist Dr. Preyasi Kothari has apologized for the past oversight in not linking these symptoms, acknowledging that estrogen receptors are present throughout the body, including in joint tissues. This presence means that declining estrogen levels, common during menopause or due to medication, can lead to joint pain for many women.

Research indicates that up to 60% of women experience menopausal arthralgia, particularly affecting hands and feet. Estrogen plays a role in reducing inflammation and friction within joints. Scientists have observed differences in cartilage turnover rates between men and women, and between pre- and post-menopausal women, suggesting a hormonal influence on joint health. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is recognized by the NHS as a treatment for various menopausal symptoms, including joint pain. While studies suggest HRT may reduce joint pain frequency and potentially lower the risk of hand osteoarthritis, more conclusive evidence is still needed.