Holistic, Modern Care for Menopause
At our clinics, we often see women aged 45 or better present with back, shoulder, neck or other musculoskeletal pain as they enter menopause – along with hot flashes, depression, and genitourinary symptoms. They often feel unheard by their providers, and many have sought treatment from multiple doctors over several years. We listen to women’s journeys and acknowledge the struggle. The discomfort is real. The life impact is real. The need for relief is real. Holistic, modern care for menopause can help.
There are fresh insights into menopause treatment in today’s medical community. Dr. Vonda Wright, an orthopedic sports surgeon, coined the term “musculoskeletal syndrome of menopause” in 2024. The term identifies the collection of musculoskeletal symptoms women may experience during menopause:
- Joint pain
- Frozen shoulder
- Loss of muscle mass
- Decreased bone density
- Risk of tendon and ligament injury
The syndrome is linked to the decline in estrogen levels during the menopause transition, which affects bone, muscle, and joint health. Recommendations include:
- Exercise – including strength training using weights or resistance bands, plus low-impact and flexibility exercises
- Anti-inflammatory diet – with an emphasis on protein, Omega-3s, vitamins, and minerals
- Weight management – to decrease the stress on joints, muscles, and internal organs
- Stress management – including lifestyle changes, prioritizing sleep, practicing mindfulness, and a strong support network
- Hormone therapy – to address reduced levels of protective hormones throughout the body
Helpful holistic approaches require providers who understand the journey and offer a cadre of services:
Chiropractic care and physical therapy help manage musculoskeletal symptoms while improving strength, flexibility, mobility, balance, and posture. Therapies may include adjustments, soft tissue work, dry needling to reduce muscle pain, and cold/heat therapy for temporary pain relief. Chiropractors and physical therapists can also recommend ongoing dietary changes, supplements, and exercise plans.
Medical care includes menopausal hormone therapy to replace hormones, including estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. Prescriptions may include creams, capsules, or patches, with providers recommending the best approach based on individual needs and patient history. Testing may be required to assess and monitor hormone levels as you adjust.
The result of proper treatment is reduced inflammation, alleviation of pain, improved muscle health, and better bone density. Benefits of hormone therapy include better sleep, reduced hot flashes, alleviation of vaginal and urinary symptoms, as well as less depression. Additionally, we can see long-term protection against osteoporosis, improved cognitive function, and reduced risk of cardiovascular and other diseases.
Bronston Chiropractic and Community Care Clinics offer complementary services to treat various aspects of menopause, including musculoskeletal therapies and hormone therapy. Our caring team will listen to your concerns and meet your needs with collaborative care that treats the whole person. You can feel better and lead a healthy, fulfilling life. Call (608) 781-2225 today for an appointment. We’re here for you.
