Frozen Shoulder & Menopause: Why It Happens and How Acupuncture Can Help

Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is a common and frustrating condition that affects many women during menopause. Characterized by stiffness, pain, and limited range of motion in the shoulder joint, it can make even the simplest daily activities a challenge. But why is it so prevalent during menopause—and what can be done to ease the discomfort? Let’s explore the connection and how acupuncture, cupping, and moxibustion (moxa) can provide relief.

woman holding hurting shoulder

Why Is Frozen Shoulder Common During Menopause?

Hormonal shifts play a significant role in why frozen shoulder tends to appear during midlife, particularly for women going through menopause. Estrogen has a known anti-inflammatory effect and supports the health of connective tissues. As estrogen levels decline, joint inflammation and stiffness can increase, making women more susceptible to conditions like frozen shoulder.

Menopause also brings changes in circulation, metabolism, and collagen production. These shifts can impact the synovial fluid that lubricates the shoulder joint, leading to increased friction, tightness, and pain. On top of that, stress—often heightened during this life transition—can contribute to muscle tension and restricted movement in the shoulder area.

How Acupuncture Can Help

Acupuncture is a powerful therapy for frozen shoulder that addresses both the physical and hormonal contributors. It helps to:

• Reduce inflammation – By improving blood flow and modulating the immune response, acupuncture helps decrease swelling and irritation in the joint.

• Relieve pain – Acupuncture stimulates the nervous system to release endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, making movement more comfortable.

• Restore mobility – Targeting specific points related to muscle relaxation and joint flexibility, acupuncture can help break up adhesions and improve range of motion.

• Balance hormones – Because hormonal fluctuations contribute to frozen shoulder, acupuncture also supports the endocrine system and helps ease other menopausal symptoms.

The Benefits of Cupping Therapy

Cupping therapy is another effective treatment for frozen shoulder. By creating suction on the skin, cupping:

• Increases blood circulation to the shoulder, speeding up healing

• Releases deep muscular tension that contributes to stiffness

• Improves lymphatic drainage, helping flush out toxins and reduce inflammation

  
  

Many patients find cupping to be deeply relaxing, with noticeable relief from tightness after just one session.

Moxa for Healing and Circulation

Moxibustion, or moxa, involves burning dried mugwort near the skin to apply deep-penetrating therapeutic heat. For frozen shoulder, moxa offers several benefits:

• Boosts circulation, promoting healing of the affected tissues

• Reduces inflammation by activating white blood cells to the area

• Relaxes stiff muscles and tendons

• Provides deep, soothing warmth that eases pain and discomfort

  
  

At home, patients can use smokeless moxa sticks to gently warm the affected shoulder, supporting continued healing between treatments—check out this blog post for tips on how to use moxa safely and effectively.

Holistic Support for Frozen Shoulder

In addition to acupuncture, cupping, and moxa, other supportive tools include:

• Gentle shoulder mobility exercises

• Stress reduction techniques like breathwork or meditation

• An anti-inflammatory diet rich in whole foods and healthy fats

• Hydration and adequate rest—essential for tissue repair

Ready to feel better?

Book your appointment today and take the first step toward a pain-free shoulder. Have questions? Reach out anytime—I’d love to help you find the best path forward for your unique needs.

woman stretching shoulder prior to a run