Menopause, Tendons & Osteopathy: What’s the Connection?

Let’s talk tendons, hormones, and that nagging Achilles pain that won’t go away!

As women enter perimenopause and menopause, one major hormonal shift is the drop in oestrogen. This change doesn’t just affect hot flushes or mood; it can also impact the health of your tendons.

📉 Research shows that low oestrogen levels can reduce tendon collagen synthesis and increase the risk of tendinopathy. Think glute, rotator cuff, or Achilles issues! This makes injury more likely and your recovery slower.

Your body is changing, and that means your care should too!

Your Body Is Changing Through Menopause, and That Means Your Care Should Too!

As an osteopath, I support menopausal women by:

✅ Identifying and treating biomechanical imbalances

✅ Supporting tendon loading and recovery with evidence-based rehab

✅ Helping you stay strong, mobile, and confident in your body

✅ Educating you about the hormonal shifts affecting your musculoskeletal health

You are NOT “just getting old.” Real changes are happening, and there’s help!

Understanding Tendon Health

Tendons are crucial for movement. They connect muscles to bones and help us perform everyday activities. However, hormonal changes can weaken these structures, making them more susceptible to injury.

When oestrogen levels drop, the body struggles to maintain tendon health. This can lead to pain and discomfort, especially in areas like the Achilles tendon.

The Role of Osteopathy

Osteopathy focuses on the whole body. It’s not just about treating symptoms; it’s about understanding the underlying issues. By addressing biomechanical imbalances, I can help you regain strength and mobility.

Osteopathic treatments may include gentle manipulations and tailored exercises. These approaches support tendon recovery and promote overall wellness.

Staying Active During Menopause

Staying active is vital during this transition. Regular movement can help maintain tendon health and improve your mood. It’s essential to find activities you enjoy! Whether it’s walking, swimming, or yoga, staying engaged can make a significant difference.

Nutrition and Hormonal Health

Don’t forget about nutrition! A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals supports tendon health. Foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, like fish and flaxseeds, can reduce inflammation. Calcium and vitamin D are also crucial for bone and tendon strength.

Seeking Help

If you’re dealing with stubborn pain or feeling like your body's changing in ways you don’t understand, you’re not alone. Osteopathy can help! Let’s chat.

The blog "Menopause, Tendons & Osteopathy: What’s the Connection?" was written by Dr. Liz Iovannella (osteopath), who works from Whole Health Osteopathy on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday!

More information about Liz can be found at her website https://www.womensperformanceosteopathy.com/.

🔍 Want to nerd out on the research? Check out:

Hansen M. et al. (2013). "Effects of estrogen on tendon collagen synthesis." https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23729599/

Finni T. et al. (2020). "Women’s tendon properties and the potential influence of hormonal fluctuations." https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31986901/

Conclusion

In summary, understanding the connection between menopause and tendon health is crucial. Hormonal changes can lead to discomfort, but with the right support, you can navigate this transition confidently.

Movement, support, and targeted care can make this next chapter feel strong, not scary. Let’s work together to help you feel your best!