Frozen Shoulder and Menopause: What’s the Connection?

ByBob Burns

Updated March 24, 2025

What Is Frozen Shoulder?

Frozen shoulder occurs when the connective tissue surrounding your shoulder joint becomes inflamed and thickened, limiting motion. It typically develops in three stages:

1. Freezing stage – pain increases, and range of motion starts to decrease.
2. Frozen stage – pain may lessen, but stiffness remains.
3. Thawing stage – shoulder motion gradually improves.

This process can take anywhere from 6 months to 2 years, though early intervention may shorten the timeline.

Why It’s Linked to Menopause

So, what does menopause have to do with your shoulder? A few theories:

• Hormonal shifts: Declining estrogen levels may contribute to increased inflammation and collagen changes, which can stiffen joints and connective tissues.
• Decreased mobility: Women may become less active during perimenopause, leading to joint tightness.
• Metabolic changes: Menopause can affect insulin resistance and circulation, both of which may contribute to musculoskeletal issues like frozen shoulder.

According to theNational Library of Medicine, frozen shoulder is significantly more common in women between 40 and 60—and hormonal changes are believed to be a contributing factor.

Common Symptoms

Frozen shoulder menopause symptoms tend to develop gradually and may include:

• Persistent, dull or aching pain in the shoulder
• Difficulty reaching overhead, behind your back, or across your chest
• Stiffness that worsens over time
• Sleep disruption due to shoulder discomfort

Pain is usually felt in the outer shoulder and sometimes the upper arm. Many women first notice it when they struggle to put on a bra, fasten a seatbelt, or reach for something on a high shelf.

Who’s Most at Risk?

Besides being more common during menopause, frozen shoulder is also more likely if you:

• Have diabetes or thyroid disorders
• Are recovering from surgery or injury that limited shoulder use
• Are less physically active
• Have a history of autoimmune or inflammatory conditions

Diagnosis and Treatment

Your healthcare provider may diagnose frozen shoulder based on your symptoms and a physical exam. In some cases, imaging tests like an MRI or ultrasound are used to rule out other issues.
Treatment often includes:

• Physical therapy – stretching and strengthening exercises are the most effective.
• Anti-inflammatory medications – like ibuprofen or naproxen to manage pain.
• Corticosteroid injections – may help reduce inflammation in early stages.
• Heat therapy – to loosen up the shoulder before stretching.
• Hydrodilatation – a procedure where saline is injected into the joint to help it expand and loosen.

Surgery is rarely needed unless the condition doesn’t improve after 12 months of consistent non-surgical treatment.

You can read more about diagnosis and management from MedlinePlus.

At-Home Tips for Relief

• Use a heating pad before doing shoulder exercises>
• Stay as active as your pain level allows—movement is essential
• >Avoid heavy lifting or overuse until mobility improves
• Try gentle yoga or tai chi to support flexibility and joint health

The Takeaway

Frozen shoulder can be frustrating and surprisingly debilitating—but it’s treatable. If you’re navigating perimenopause or menopause and start noticing shoulder pain or stiffness, don’t ignore it. The earlier you intervene with targeted exercises and supportive care, the faster your recovery.