Women's Health
Common musculoskeletal issues for active women over 40
If you're active and over 40, you've probably noticed your body responding differently than it used to. Stiffness that lingers, aches from things that never used to bother you, a shoulder you've quietly been working around. These are real changes, and most of them are worth looking into.
I see a lot of women in this situation. Manual therapy and targeted exercise are often part of what helps, and I'll assess what's driving it and recommend what's appropriate for your specific presentation.
Joint stiffness, muscle tension, and slower recovery are common during perimenopause. Hormonal changes affect connective tissue, and the musculoskeletal effects are real and underappreciated. Here's what the evidence says and what can actually help.
IT band syndrome, runner's knee, plantar fasciitis, and Achilles tendinopathy are common in women who run, particularly those who have returned to running after time off or recently increased mileage. Assessment, load management, and soft tissue work can help.
Neck tension, upper back stiffness, and wrist pain from sustained desk work. If you're in a corporate role or working from a home setup that was never designed for 8-hour days, this is common. Covers ergonomics, movement habits, and when manual therapy adds value.
Women experience TMJ and TMD at higher rates than men. Clenching and jaw pain often link to neck tension and stress patterns. This page covers the mechanics, what assessment involves, and what conservative care can offer.
Frozen shoulder is significantly more common in women, particularly between 40 and 60. Carrying habits and postural load can be contributing factors, and shoulder issues are one of the most common presentations I see. Early assessment matters.
Hip stiffness, clicking, and pain are common in active women over 40, especially runners and those who alternate between long desk hours and exercise. Load management, mobility work, and manual therapy can help. This page covers what's usually going on and when to get it looked at.