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A recent study published Wednesday unveiled a concerning link between premature surgical menopause and heightened susceptibility to muscle disorders, including chronic musculoskeletal pain and sarcopenia. Shedding light on the profound impact of hormonal changes, the research underscores the significance of hormone deficiency in exacerbating these conditions.
Musculoskeletal pain, a pervasive symptom during menopause, not only affects daily life but also interferes with muscle function and mass. Sarcopenia, a progressive musculoskeletal disease characterized by the loss of muscle mass and strength, emerges as a significant concern in this context.
The study, featured in the online pages of the journal Menopause, delves into the nuanced dynamics of hormonal fluctuations and their ramifications on muscle health. It posits that beyond mere chronologic age, hormone deficiency emerges as a critical factor driving the onset of muscle disorders.
The precipitous decline in ovarian hormone levels, a hallmark of menopause, is particularly pronounced in individuals experiencing premature menopause, whether due to spontaneous occurrences or surgical interventions. Furthermore, the study highlights a notable decline in testosterone levels among women undergoing premature menopause.
Analyzing data from nearly 650 women in the United States, researchers uncovered a stark contrast in the incidence of musculoskeletal discomfort and sarcopenia between those experiencing premature surgical menopause and those undergoing natural menopause at age 45 or older.
Stephanie Faubion, the medical director for The Menopause Society, emphasized the far-reaching implications of these findings. “This study highlights the potential long-term musculoskeletal effects of premature surgical menopause, which causes a more abrupt and complete loss of ovarian hormones, including estrogen and testosterone, than natural menopause,” Faubion remarked.
Furthermore, Faubion advocated for the judicious use of hormone therapy until the natural age of menopause to alleviate some of the adverse long-term effects stemming from early estrogen loss.
The study also unveiled alarming statistics regarding muscle stiffness complaints during menopause, affecting a significant portion of women aged 40 to 55 in the United States. With 54 percent of women in this demographic experiencing such discomfort, the need for targeted interventions to address musculoskeletal health during menopause becomes increasingly evident.
As research continues to unravel the intricate interplay between hormones and musculoskeletal health, the findings underscore the importance of proactive measures in managing menopausal symptoms and mitigating long-term health risks.
