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Back Pain From Bra 

Date: April 5, 2023

Back pain is a common problem that a lot of people have. Several things, such as bad posture, an injury, or a health problem, can cause it.

One often-overlooked cause of back pain is a poorly fitting bra. Wearing a bra that does not fit properly or is the wrong size can strain the muscles and ligaments of the back, resulting in pain and discomfort. 

This article will discuss the causes of back pain from bras, the effects of a poorly fitting bra on the body, and tips for choosing and wearing a bra that will help prevent back pain.

Causes of Back Pain from Bras

A tightly fit bra, back pain from  bra
A tightly fit bra

A poorly fitting bra can cause many issues that lead to back pain. Some of the most common causes include:

  • Straps that are too tight: When you wear a bra with too tight straps, they can put pressure on your shoulders and upper back. This can cause pain, discomfort, and headaches.
  • Bands that are too tight: The band of a bra should fit snugly but not too tightly. Wearing a bra with a band that is too tight can cause strain on the muscles and ligaments in the lower back. This can lead to pain and discomfort, as well as poor posture.
  • Cups that are too small: Wearing a bra with too small cups can cause the breasts to spill out over the top or sides of the cups. This can cause strain on the muscles and ligaments in the back, as well as discomfort and chafing.
  • Cups that are too large: Wearing a bra with cups that are too large can cause the bra to bunch up or shift around, which can cause strain on the muscles and ligaments in the back.
  • Wearing a bra that is too old: Over time, the elastic in bras can lose its stretch and support. When you wear an old bra, it can stress the muscles and ligaments in your back and make you feel uncomfortable.

Effects of a Poorly Fitting Bra on the Body

Wearing a poorly fitting bra can have a number of negative effects on the body. Some of the most common effects include the following:

  • Poor posture: Wearing a bra that does not fit properly can cause the shoulders to hunch forward and the back to arch. This can lead to poor posture, which can cause strain on the muscles and ligaments in the back, as well as headaches and neck pain

Check out our 5 Simple Remedies For Relieving Neck Pain.

  • Breast pain: Wearing a bra that does not fit properly can cause discomfort and pain in the breasts. This can be caused by straps that are too tight, cups that are too small, or cups that are too large.
  • Chafing: Wearing a bra that does not fit properly can cause chafing and irritation on the skin. This can also be caused by straps that are too tight, cups that are too small, or cups that are too large.
  • Headaches: Wearing a bra that does not fit properly can cause headaches. This can be caused by straps that are too tight, which can put pressure on the muscles and ligaments in the head and neck.

Tips for Choosing and Wearing a Bra

There are a number of things that can be done to prevent back pain from bras. Some tips for choosing and wearing a bra that will help prevent back pain include:

  • Get measured: Before buying a bra, it is important to get measured. This will help ensure that the bra fits properly and will not cause strain on the muscles and ligaments in the back.
  • Choose the right size: When choosing a bra. It is crucial to choose the right size. The band should fit snugly but not too tightly, and the cups should fit properly without spilling over the top or sides.
  • Adjust the straps: The straps of a bra should be adjusted so they are not too tight. This will help prevent strain on the muscles and ligaments in the shoulders and upper back.
  • Replace old bras: Over time, the elastic in bras can lose its stretch and support. It is important to replace old bras with new ones to ensure proper fit and support.
  • Wear the right type of bra for any activity: Different activities require different types of bras. Wearing the right type of bra for the activity will help ensure proper fit and support. For example, a sports bra is necessary for exercising, and a sleep bra for sleeping.
  • Avoid sleeping in a bra: It is not recommended to sleep in a bra as it can cause pressure on the chest and back muscles; also, it can cause discomfort and overheating.

Medical conditions that can be exacerbated by wearing a poorly fitting bra

An x-ray of the spine
An x-ray of the spine

In addition to the causes and effects of back pain from bras, a number of medical conditions can be exacerbated by wearing a poorly fitting bra. Some of these conditions include:

Scoliosis

Scoliosis is a condition in which the spine is curved to the side. Wearing a bra that does not fit properly can put extra strain on the muscles and ligaments in the back, which can worsen the symptoms of scoliosis. 

Kyphosis

Kyphosis Is a condition in which the upper back is rounded. Wearing a bra that does not fit properly can put extra strain on the muscles and ligaments in the back, which can worsen the symptoms of kyphosis.

Lordosis

Lordosis is a condition in which the lower back is arched. Wearing a bra that does not fit properly can put extra strain on the muscles and ligaments in the back, which can worsen the symptoms of lordosis. Here are the Best Treatments For Effective Low Back Pain Relief

Herniated disc

A herniated disc is when the soft center of a spinal disc pushes through a tear in the outer layer. Wearing a bra that does not fit properly can put extra strain on the muscles and ligaments in the back, which can worsen the symptoms of a herniated disc.

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a condition in which the bones become weak and fragile. Wearing a bra that does not fit properly can put extra strain on the bones in the back, which can worsen the symptoms of osteoporosis.

Additional Tips 

A woman in a bra

It's important to know that a bad bra causes not all back pain, and not all back pain can be prevented by wearing the right bra. If you have back pain, you should always talk to a doctor or nurse to find out what's causing it and the best way to treat it.

Materials and fabrics 

To avoid back pain caused by bras, it is also important to pay attention to the materials and fabrics used to make the bra. Natural fibers like cotton and silk are more breathable and less likely to cause skin irritation than synthetic fibers.

Avoid bras with underwires, as they can cause pressure and discomfort. Also, pay attention to the straps; make sure they are not too tight and not digging into your shoulders.

Posture and Body Mechanics 

In addition, it is important to pay attention to your posture and overall body mechanics when wearing a bra. 

Keeping your shoulders back and your core engaged can help prevent strain on the muscles and ligaments in the back. And make sure to take the bra off after a long day, or when you are at home, it is not recommended to wear the bra for long periods of time.

Bra-fitting check

It is vital to have a regular bra-fitting check, especially if you have recently lost or gained weight or if you have gone through pregnancy or menopause, as it can affect the size and shape of your breasts. 

A regular bra-fitting check will ensure that you are wearing the right size bra and that it fits properly, which can help prevent back pain caused by bras.

Men's breast Reduction Surgery 

It's also important to note that back pain caused by bras is not limited to just women. Men who have undergone breast reduction surgery, or have gynecomastia, may also experience back pain from ill-fitting bras. 

In these cases, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional specializing in breast health to ensure that the right size and style of the bra are worn to prevent back pain.

Self Esteem and Confidence 

In addition to physical discomfort, a poorly fitting bra can also have an impact on self-esteem and confidence. Wearing a bra that doesn't fit properly can cause discomfort and make you feel self-conscious. 

By taking the time to make sure that your bra fits properly, you can help prevent back pain and feel more comfortable and confident in your own skin.

When Should You See A Pain Specialist For Chronic Pain? 

Back pain
Back pain

Consult with a healthcare provider if you are experiencing back pain, and make sure to have a regular bra-fitting check to ensure that you are wearing the right size and that it fits properly. 

Additionally, it's important to be aware of any pre-existing medical conditions, such as scoliosis, kyphosis, lordosis, herniated disc, and osteoporosis, as wearing a poorly fitting bra can exacerbate symptoms of these conditions.

Conclusion

Back pain caused by bras is a common condition that is often overlooked. A poorly fitting bra can cause a number of issues that lead to back pain, including poor posture, breast pain, chafing, and headaches. 

Wearing the right size bra, adjusting the straps, replacing old bras, wearing the right type of bra for the activity, and avoiding sleeping in a bra can help prevent back pain caused by bras. It is also essential to pay attention to the materials and fabrics used in the construction of the bra and to pay attention to your posture and overall body mechanics when wearing a bra. 

About Dr. Sean Ormond
Dr. Sean Ormond in black medical uniform and black fog background
Dr. Sean Ormond is dual board-certified in Anesthesiology and Interventional Pain Management. He completed his anesthesia residency at Case Western University in Cleveland, Ohio where he served as Chief Resident, followed by an interventional pain management fellowship at Rush University in Chicago, IL. Following fellowship, Dr. Ormond moved to Phoenix and has been practicing in the Valley for a few years before deciding to start his own practice.
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