GP and TV doctor Dr Amir Khan is urging women in their 40s and 50s not to ignore a lesser-known symptom
Women born between 1966 and 1981 are being advised to pay attention to a lesser-known symptom that may be associated with menopause and perimenopause. In a video posted to his Instagram followers on Monday, television GP Dr Amir Khan drew attention to the link between menopause and frozen shoulder, warning that numerous women might wrongly attribute the symptoms to the ageing process.
Frozen shoulder develops when the capsule surrounding the shoulder joint becomes inflamed and constricted, resulting in pain, stiffness and a progressive reduction in mobility. While the condition has been well-documented by medical professionals, Dr Khan noted that experts are now exploring the potential role hormones might have in causing it.
In the video, he stated: “Did you know that frozen shoulder is much more common in women during perimenopause and menopause? We used to think it was just bad luck, but now we’re realising hormones may play a much bigger role than we once thought.”
Dr Amir revealed that frozen shoulder occurs most frequently in women aged 45 to 60. A prominent theory focuses on declining oestrogen levels, which possesses anti-inflammatory qualities and supports healthy connective tissues, including tendons, ligaments and joint capsules. As oestrogen levels shift and drop during the menopause, researchers believe the shoulder capsule may become increasingly susceptible to inflammation and the build-up of scar tissue, potentially triggering the pain and stiffness associated with the condition.
Dr Amir explained that scientists are still working to understand why the shoulder seems particularly prone to this. He pointed out, however, that the joint has the greatest range of motion in the entire body and depends on a delicate capsule to function correctly, which could make it more vulnerable to such changes.
The NHS states that frozen shoulder develops slowly and can result in pain and stiffness lasting several months or even years. It is most prevalent in those aged between 40 and 60, with women more likely to be affected than men.
Studies have also identified a connection between frozen shoulder and diabetes. Diabetes UK reports that people living with diabetes are up to five times more likely to develop the condition compared to those without the disease.
Despite the significant discomfort it can cause, Dr Amir urged women not to simply accept deteriorating shoulder pain as an inevitable part of growing older.
“The most important thing is that if you’re in your 40s or 50s and develop shoulder pain that’s gradually getting stiffer rather than better, don’t just put up with it,” he said. “Don’t say it’s just down to ageing. It could be frozen shoulder and getting the right diagnosis early can help you access the treatments and exercises that may improve your symptoms.”
The NHS recommends that anyone suffering from ongoing shoulder pain, stiffness or restricted arm movement should seek medical guidance, particularly if these symptoms are starting to impact their day-to-day life.

You must be logged in to post a comment Login