Why more women are facing painful shoulder stiffness

According to Dr Sivaraman B, reduced estrogen levels during menopause can directly affect joint and connective tissue health. Estrogen is known to support flexibility, regulate inflammation and maintain healthy tissues around the joints.

New Delhi: Frozen shoulder, medically known as adhesive capsulitis, is emerging as a growing health concern among menopausal women. Orthopaedic specialists say hormonal changes during menopause, especially the decline in estrogen levels, are playing a major role in increasing cases of shoulder pain, stiffness and restricted movement among women between the ages of 40 and 60.

According to Dr Sivaraman B, reduced estrogen levels during menopause can directly affect joint and connective tissue health. Estrogen is known to support flexibility, regulate inflammation and maintain healthy tissues around the joints.

“As women enter menopause, lower estrogen levels can trigger inflammation and thickening of the shoulder capsule, which gradually leads to stiffness and restricted mobility,” Dr Sivaraman explained.

Why menopause affects shoulder movement

Doctors say hormonal shifts during menopause can also reduce collagen production and tissue elasticity, making it harder for the body to repair minor injuries or maintain proper lubrication around the shoulder joint.

Because of this, even small strains, lack of movement or temporary immobilisation can increase the risk of developing frozen shoulder. Experts warn that many women initially ignore mild shoulder discomfort, assuming it is linked to ageing or muscle fatigue, allowing the condition to worsen over time.

Women with these conditions face higher risk

Health experts say women with diabetes, thyroid disorders or sedentary lifestyles are more vulnerable to frozen shoulder and may also take longer to recover.

Long hours of desk work, poor posture and limited physical activity are also contributing factors that may worsen shoulder stiffness gradually.

Symptoms that should not be ignored

Frozen shoulder usually begins with persistent shoulder pain, followed by increasing stiffness that limits daily activities. Common movements such as lifting the arm, reaching overhead, dressing or even sleeping comfortably can become difficult.

Doctors say diagnosis is generally based on physical examination and medical history, although imaging tests may sometimes be required to rule out other shoulder-related problems.

Early treatment can prevent severe stiffness

Experts stress that timely medical attention is crucial to prevent long-term movement restriction. Physiotherapy and pain management are considered the first line of treatment in most cases.

If symptoms do not improve with conservative treatment, doctors may recommend minimally invasive procedures such as hydrodilation to improve joint mobility. In severe cases where the shoulder becomes extremely stiff, arthroscopic surgery may be needed to release tightened tissues.

Doctors advise women experiencing gradual shoulder stiffness during menopause not to ignore the symptoms and seek medical consultation at an early stage to avoid complications.