Frozen Shoulder and the Menopause: What You Need to Know
Many women are surprised to discover that shoulder pain and stiffness can become more common during the menopause. One of the most frustrating conditions we see in clinic is frozen shoulder (also known as adhesive capsulitis), and research suggests that women between the ages of 40 and 60, particularly those going through the menopause, are at increased risk.
So, what’s the link, and what can be done about it?
What Is Frozen Shoulder?
Frozen shoulder is a condition where the capsule surrounding the shoulder joint thickens and tightens, restricting movement. It typically goes through three phases:
Freezing phase – increasing pain and gradual loss of shoulder movement.
Frozen phase – pain may ease slightly, but stiffness remains.
Thawing phase – shoulder gradually regains movement, although this can take months or even years.
It’s not uncommon for people to have difficulty with everyday tasks such as dressing, reaching overhead, or even sleeping comfortably.
Why the Menopause Matters
During the menopause, falling levels of oestrogen can affect many tissues in the body, not just the reproductive system. Oestrogen plays a role in maintaining the health of connective tissues, including ligaments, tendons, and joint capsules. When oestrogen levels decline:
Connective tissue may become less elastic.
Inflammation can increase.
Recovery from small injuries may be slower.
This hormonal shift is thought to be one of the reasons frozen shoulder is more common in women around the menopausal years. Some studies also suggest links with other hormonal and metabolic changes, such as thyroid dysfunction or diabetes, both of which are also more prevalent during this life stage.
How Physiotherapy Can Help
Although frozen shoulder can take time to resolve, physiotherapy is one of the most effective ways to manage the condition. Treatment focuses on:
Pain relief techniques – including gentle manual therapy, heat, or advice on pacing activity.
Targeted exercises – to maintain as much shoulder mobility as possible and prevent further stiffness.
Posture and movement strategies – to ease strain on the shoulder in daily life.
Education and reassurance – understanding the natural course of frozen shoulder can help reduce anxiety and frustration.
Every case is unique, so treatment plans are tailored to the individual’s symptoms and stage of the condition.
Self-Help Tips at Home
Keep the shoulder moving gently within your pain limits — little and often is better than forcing it.
Heat packs can help relax tight muscles and ease discomfort.
Stay active overall — maintaining general fitness supports recovery.
Seek early advice from a physiotherapist if you notice persistent pain or stiffness.
Final Thoughts
Frozen shoulder can feel overwhelming, especially during the menopause when many other changes are happening. The good news is that with the right support, most people do make a full recovery. Physiotherapy can help manage pain, restore movement, and guide you through the process so you feel in control of your recovery.
If you’re experiencing shoulder stiffness or pain during the menopause, don’t dismiss it as “just part of getting older” — there are effective treatments available.
Women’s Health Clinic
The significant hormonal changes that occur in the body during Menopause can cause profound changes in a women’s health and lead to some miserable side effects.