Frozen shoulder
Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis) involves progressive stiffness and pain in the shoulder joint. Research shows women are 5 times more likely to develop frozen shoulder during perimenopause, likely due to hormonal changes affecting connective tissue.
How to track
- Log pain levels daily using a consistent 0-10 scale.
- Track range of motion limitations (reaching overhead, behind back).
- Note which movements trigger pain or restriction.
- Record sleep disruptions caused by shoulder pain.
- Track correlation with menstrual cycle phases.
Common context
Studies show frozen shoulder affects up to 20% of women during perimenopause and menopause, making it one of the most common musculoskeletal conditions of this life stage. Declining estrogen may affect collagen and connective tissue health.
What to bring to a clinician
- When did shoulder stiffness begin and how has it progressed?
- Which daily activities are most affected by limited range of motion?
- Have you noticed any correlation between shoulder symptoms and other perimenopause symptoms?