Empowering Women’s Musculoskeletal Wellness: Strategies for Addressing Common Pains & Problems

As we celebrate International Women’s Day, it’s crucial to highlight the unique musculoskeletal health concerns that disproportionately affect women. Recent research, including the study published in the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), underscores the prevalence of musculoskeletal problems among women compared to men. In this article, we explore three common challenges—back pain, neck pain, and osteoarthritis —shedding light on their impact and providing insights into effective management strategies.

3 Common Musculoskeletal Issues that Affect Women More Compared to Men

1. Back Pain:

Back pain is a prevalent issue that significantly impacts women’s daily lives, with statistics highlighting a higher prevalence among women compared to men. According to the NCBI study, women are approximately 1.4 times more likely than men to experience chronic low back pain. There are 3 main reasons as to why this is the case:

Biomechanical differences between Women & Men

Women often have wider hips and a different pelvic structure than men, which can affect the alignment of the spine and increase the likelihood of strain on the lower back.

Hormonal factors

Hormonal fluctuations, particularly during menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause, can contribute to changes in ligament laxity and muscle tension, potentially increasing susceptibility to back pain.

Pregnancy Changes

The weight gain and changes in posture associated with pregnancy can place additional stress on the spine and supporting muscles, leading to back pain.

2. Neck Pain:

Similarly, neck pain is a common musculoskeletal complaint that affects women disproportionately. Research indicates that women are more susceptible to neck pain, with a prevalence rate estimated to be 1.6 times higher in women compared to men. A possible cause of this is because of anatomical differences. Women generally have smaller neck muscles and narrower shoulder widths compared to men, which may predispose them to poor posture and increased strain on the neck muscles.

3. Osteoarthritis:

Osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease, poses a considerable health burden for women, with statistics revealing a significantly higher prevalence in women compared to men, especially after menopause. Studies suggest that women are nearly twice as likely as men to develop osteoarthritis, particularly in weight-bearing joints such as the knees and hips.

Research suggests that women with OA experience higher pain levels, inflammation, and mobility issues compared to men. Lower levels of certain hormones in women, such as estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone, are linked to increased pain and inflammation. Differences in inflammatory chemicals in joint fluid may contribute to increased pain sensitivity in women with OA. Overall, women tend to be more sensitive to pain and have different inflammatory responses compared to men.

Effective Management Strategies

Despite the higher prevalence of musculoskeletal problems among women, effective management strategies can help alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life. These strategies include physiotherapy, pain management techniques, lifestyle modifications, and pharmacological interventions tailored to individual needs.

Seek Physiotherapy Treatment for Women’s Musculoskeletal Problems

In conclusion, musculoskeletal problems pose significant challenges for women, impacting their daily functioning and overall well-being. The statistics highlighting the higher prevalence of conditions such as back pain, neck pain, and osteoarthritis among women underscore the importance of targeted interventions and comprehensive management strategies. As we commemorate International Women’s Day, let’s raise awareness about these critical health issues and advocate for equitable access to musculoskeletal care for all women. By empowering women to prioritize their musculoskeletal health and seek appropriate treatment, we can work towards a future where all women can live active, fulfilling lives free from the burden of musculoskeletal pain and disability.