Menopause & Musculoskeletal Health: ‘Move Like It Matters’ Through Midlife & Beyond
While menopause is a normal and natural life transition, it can be a time of unexpected changes and challenges for many Canadians. This major biological milestone can touch every part of your life from physical and mental health to work, relationships, and long-term wellness.
During perimenopause, menopause, or post-menopause, there are more than 30 symptoms you could experience, including:
• Hot flashes
• Sleep disturbances
• Mood swings
• Brain fog and/or forgetfulness
• Fatigue
• Genitourinary health changes (i.e. leaking with coughing or sneezing)
• Weight gain
Musculoskeletal (MSK) symptoms, such as joint pain, stiffness, muscle aches, or changes in strength and mobility, are also particularly common during the menopausal transition. Changes in estrogen can affect almost every organ in the human body, including the MSK system. This broader collection of symptoms is often referred to as Musculoskeletal Syndrome of Menopause (MSM). However, it’s important to note that not every ache or pain experienced during menopause is necessarily caused by it. As MSK health professionals, chiropractors can help you understand the symptoms you’re experiencing during the menopausal transition.
What’s the Average Age for Menopause?
According to various sources, the average menopause age is 51. If the menopausal transition occurs:
• Between 40-45: It’s considered “early” menopause.
• Under 40: It’s considered “premature” menopause.
• 55 or older: It’s considered “late” menopause.
However, menopause can happen instantly at any age. Certain medicines, such as chemotherapy, and surgeries can contribute to the menopausal transition.
How Chiropractic Can Help Before, During & After Menopause
Arthritis in middle-aged individuals
Depending on your individual needs during perimenopause, menopause, or post-menopause, chiropractic care may include strategies to help:
• Manage MSK pain and stiffness symptoms through hands-on care.
• Improve movement and physical function with individualized care plans.
• Identify when further assessment or referral may be appropriate.
Chiropractic care isn’t about treating menopause itself. Instead, chiropractors can be part of your health care team by helping you address MSK concerns that may arise during each stage of menopause.
Regular physical activity, resistance training, and weight-bearing exercises can all play an important role in maintaining muscle strength and supporting bone health throughout midlife — and beyond.
Each stage of menopause is a time to thrive, not simply cope with any symptoms you’re experiencing. Contact Fairview Chiropractic Today.
