Aries, it’s funny how you blaim your insistence on Popa. Is it that hard for you to come to terms with the fact that he understands Halacha better than you? It is not an emotion issue. Please realize your place. There are many here who admire your opinions. I also do, where it’s obvious that you have experience. However, you must be able to recognize the limits of your expertice.
Yes, there is a concept of Shaas Hadchak and it must be properly applied. Openning a door for someone as a show of etiquette does not qualfy. You understand that someone like Popa who spent time with Halacha and got a ‘degree’, would understand its application.
Back to your question, the Gemara gives the option, when you’re stuck, to turn sideways. That’s how I go onto a bus. Usually though, I usually wait until a man goes behind her.