Musculoskeletal Disorders in Women

When we refer to musculoskeletal disorders, we are referring to disorders of the muscles that are attached to and move the skeleton. Because a woman's body chemistry is different from a man's, the way her musculature responds is also different. For example, women suffer from anemia more commonly than men. This means that there is less blood to provide oxygen and other nutrients to muscle tissue. In Chinese medicine, we call such a situation "Blood Deficiency." If you couple this deficiency with repetitive movement, then chronic conditions, such as carpal tunnel syndrome and tennis elbow, often result.

One of the most common musculoskeletal problem areas for women is the neck and shoulders. Unlike the typical soreness that occurs from strenuous exercise or job-related use, most women complain of stress-related tension and pain.

Why does stress impact this area so heavily? In terms of mind-body medicine, the shoulders represent responsibility, "carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders." Certainly for today's modern woman, the weight of responsibility is heavy indeed, and, if left untreated, her shoulder pain often becomes chronic, often spreading into the neck and back.

Though this discussion is brief, I think you begin to get the idea that every health condition, whether musculoskeletal or other, is an individual matter, the result of a person's unique body chemistry and circumstances. As such, a holistic approach that takes body, mind, and spirit into account is very appropriate. For some conditions, acupuncture alone is an effective therapy. For others, a combination of acupuncture, herbs/homeopatics, and perhaps diet is in order. And let us not forget lifestyle and personal circumstances. More than we sometimes know, they all have a bearing on our health.

If you have a health condition that is causing you concern and you would like to know whether holistic medicine might be helpful, you are welcome to call me at 858/673-1397 for a free phone consultation.

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Rancho Bernardo Sun/ Diamond Gateway Signature
September 1999