Menopause, Musculoskeletal Pain, and Productivity: How Are They Connected?

Menopause is a natural biological process that marks the end of a woman's reproductive years. While it eventually affects every female, the range of physical and emotional symptoms it can cause are often still surprising. A connection many people don’t realize? Menopause and musculoskeletal (MSK) health.

According to research, more than 80% of women in menopause experience symptoms such as joint pain, inflammation, changes in fat distribution, an increase in arthritis, and loss of muscle mass and bone density.¹ The decline in estrogen during menopause not only exacerbates existing MSK issues but can also trigger new ones. Midi Health, a virtual care clinic focused on women in midlife and a Hinge Health partner, reports that nearly half of their patients note MSK symptoms like joint pain.²

Why Menopause Affects Musculoskeletal Health

Estrogen plays an important role in maintaining bone density and joint health. As estrogen levels drop during menopause, women may experience increased joint pain, muscle aches, and even pelvic health issues. These symptoms can have a significant impact, leading to decreased comfort, mobility, and overall quality of life. If left unaddressed, these symptoms can escalate, contributing to frailty and compounding health challenges as women age.

The Power of Addressing Musculoskeletal Pain

Managing musculoskeletal pain during menopause is essential for enhancing overall wellbeing. Engaging in targeted movement and exercise therapy can alleviate joint discomfort, improve muscle mass, and decrease muscle tension. Physical therapists and specialized care teams, such as those at Hinge Health, can provide women with personalized exercise routines and lifestyle adjustments to address these symptoms. In addition to movement, it is also beneficial to manage the hormonal impact of menopause. A menopause care plan can help women experiencing MSK pain and other menopause symptoms.

Why Employers Should Pay Attention

For employers, the connection between menopause, MSK health, and employee wellbeing is critical. A significant number of women in the workforce are within the age range where menopause symptoms are prominent. Women over 50 are one of the fastest-growing employment groups, and menopausal symptoms can adversely impact quality of life, work performance, and attendance.³

A study published in Oxford University Press found that female employees are negatively affected by menopausal symptoms at work, with those of a psychological and neurocognitive nature topping the list. These symptoms are associated with work performance, attendance, and career decisions; 65% of respondents indicated workplace performance was impacted and 18% took sick leave.³

The financial impact is also significant. Mayo Clinic estimates that the cost of lost work time due to menopausal symptoms is $1.8 billion per year in the U.S. When medical expenses are added, the total estimated cost is $26.6 billion annually.⁴ Untreated MSK pain can lead to decreased productivity, increased absenteeism, and higher healthcare costs. By offering support systems and programs tailored to address menopause and MSK symptoms, employers can significantly enhance the quality of life and productivity of their workforce.

How Hinge Health and Midi Health Improve Access to Care

It is crucial that women experiencing menopause have access to comprehensive, movement-based care with a focus on musculoskeletal health. Hinge Health partners with Midi Health to offer additional care for women experiencing menopause. This collaboration combines Hinge Health’s movement-based menopause support with Midi’s expert clinical care, which focuses on the symptoms and health risks associated with midlife hormonal changes.

Once a Hinge Health member decides to add the menopause personalization, her Hinge Health app experience will include additional exercises, lifestyle and behavior change strategies, and educational resources. If Midi is already in-network with a member’s insurance plan, the app will connect them directly to Midi so they can schedule a virtual  visit with a clinician and receive a personalized Care Plan that addresses both MSK symptoms of menopause and others related to the transition.

What Hinge Health members experience when they opt into menopause support:

• Expert Guidance: Personalized support from physical therapist-led care teams, helping members make lifestyle adjustments, behavior changes, and exercise routines to alleviate symptoms.

• Exercise Therapy: Tailored exercises to reduce MSK and pelvic health pain by strengthening bones and building stronger muscles.

• Customized Education: Resources to help manage menopause symptoms such as vasomotor symptoms, joint pain, sleep quality, and stress.

• In-Network Care: Members who are already in-network with Midi Health can schedule a clinician visit and access additional care options.

Empowering Women and Enhancing the Workplace

Addressing the intertwined symptoms of menopause and MSK health is not just about alleviating pain; it's about empowering women, enhancing employer offerings, and fostering a more supportive and productive workplace environment. With partners like Midi and Hinge Health, women are better equipped to navigate this transformative chapter with less discomfort and increased confidence.