Frozen Shoulder and Menopause: What’s the Connection?
23 March 2025

Frozen Shoulder and Menopause: What’s the Connection?

Menopause brings many unexpected changes, and for some of us, that includes developing a painful, stiff shoulder that just won’t seem to loosen up.

If you’ve noticed increasing discomfort in your shoulder—perhaps struggling to reach overhead, fasten your bra, or even sleep comfortably—you might be experiencing frozen shoulder. But did you know there’s a strong link between menopause and this frustrating condition?

What is Frozen Shoulder?

Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a condition where the shoulder joint becomes stiff, painful, and difficult to move. It typically progresses in three stages:

  • Freezing stage: Gradual onset of pain and reduced range of motion.
  • Frozen stage: Pain may subside slightly, but stiffness remains, making movement difficult.
  • Thawing stage: The shoulder slowly regains movement, but recovery can take months or even years.

How is Menopause Linked to Frozen Shoulder?

Studies have found that women going through menopause are significantly more likely to develop frozen shoulder compared to other groups. The reason? Hormonal changes, particularly the decline in oestrogen, play a key role in joint and connective tissue health.

Oestrogen helps maintain collagen, which keeps our ligaments and tendons flexible. As levels drop, inflammation can increase, making the shoulder joint more vulnerable to stiffness and pain.

Ways to Manage and Ease Frozen Shoulder

While frozen shoulder can take time to resolve, there are steps you can take to ease discomfort and improve mobility:

  • Gentle Stretching & Movement: Regularly moving your shoulder within a pain-free range can help prevent further stiffness. Consider gentle exercises like arm circles or doorway stretches.
  • Apply Heat & Cold Therapy: A warm compress can relax tight muscles, while an ice pack can reduce inflammation—both can help ease discomfort.
  • Seek Physiotherapy: A physiotherapist can provide targeted exercises and techniques to improve shoulder mobility and reduce pain.
  • Maintain Good Posture: Poor posture can contribute to stiffness, so be mindful of keeping your shoulders relaxed and aligned.
  • Stay Active: While it might be tempting to avoid movement due to pain, staying active with low-impact exercises like yoga or swimming can support overall joint health.
  • Consider Hormonal Support: If menopause symptoms are affecting multiple areas of your body, it may be worth discussing options such as HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy) with your GP.

Frozen shoulder can be frustrating, but it won’t last forever. If you’re experiencing persistent pain, don’t hesitate to seek support from a healthcare professional. You’re not alone in this—many menopausal women go through the same challenge, and with the right care, recovery is possible.