Musculoskeletal pain and the menopause
The menopause can be divided into three stages: perimenopause, menopause and post menopause. The perimenopause may start up to 10 years before the menopause or perhaps even longer. Musculoskeletal pains related to the menopause might be the first sign of its onset.
Many studies have shown that reduced oestrogen during the menopause and post menopause can increase severe disc degeneration and lower back pain. There is also strong evidence to show that chronic low-grade inflammation, which begins during perimenopause in most tissues, can cause immune and metabolic dysfunctions which in turn can trigger the onset of neurodegenerative disease.
As osetrogen levels decline during the perimenopause the body’s ability to absorb vitamin D can be reduced. The body’s bone strength may then be compromised.
Many women have increased musculoskeletal pain during the perimonopause. Physiotherapy involving hands-on treatment and the provision of individualised exercises to increase muscle strength, joint flexibility, balance and function can really help. Directing individuals with perimenopausal musculoskeletal pains to education resources they can access enhances their knowledge about the menopause and management options available.
Further information about how the menopause affects musculoskeletal pain can be found at:-
Dr Louise Newson’s website www.newsonhealth.co.uk
www.menopausematters.co.uk
“How does the menopause affect musculoskeletal pain? Implications for physiotherapists” Dr Solomon, Abrahams and Beth Sheehan, InTouch (The Journal for Physiotherapists in Private Practice) No 177 Winter 2021 pp 21-26.