Collagen is a protein that serves as one of the main building blocks for bones, skin, hair, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Reduction in oestrogen levels during menopause also leads to a reduction in collagen production, which makes muscles, tendons and ligaments more prone to injury – as well as extending healing times, as there is less collagen in the body to make repairs.
is a Senior Lecturer in Podiatry in the School of Sport and Health Sciences, where she is also studying for a PhD on a topic of footwear. Dao is also an owner and practising musculoskeletal podiatrist at Rebalance Foot and Ankle Services based in East Sussex.
Speaking ahead of her appearance at the Foot & Ankle Show in Liverpool, Dao said: “Hormonal changes, particularly oestrogen deficiency, can affect quality of tendons. Laboratory based studies have demonstrated that – but only a handful of clinical studies have been performed on the topic. As a clinician and a researcher, we should not avoid talking about this because of the lack of research in human subjects. Instead, we should be engaging in the discussion to raise awareness and encourage more research.”