Large Breasts and Back Problems
Large breasts can cause a range of back problems, but many women suffer through it either because they figure it's normal, or they think it will eventually get better. Aside from pain, there are other potentially serious back problems that can result from the stress that proportionately large breasts put on a woman's frame.
Pain
Very large breasts put excess weight on the chest, which results in weak muscular support, pressure on the back, discomfort and pain. Pain caused by large breasts ranges from mild to severe, depending on the size of the breasts and the age of the woman.
Posture
Loss of posture due to large breasts is not always an accident--some women actually help this problem along by purposely hunching their shoulders forward in an effort to minimize the appearance of their breasts. This can work to hasten the loss of posture, putting more pressure on the back and causing more pain.
Those who lose posture because of large breasts must try to strengthen their core through regular stabilization exercises.
Spinal Deformity
In time, the constant pressure large breasts put on the vertebrae, and the pulling forward that results, can affect the natural curve of the back. In severe cases, spinal deformities can become permanent, although this is more common in older women who have carried proportionately large breasts on their frame for many years.
Ways to Help
Core stabilization exercises can help with pain, posture and prevent spinal deformities. Also, wearing a very supportive bra is a must--women with large breasts should try to get a custom-fitted bra, or at the very least wear high-quality ones.
If back pain is not a constant problem, women can opt for over-the-counter pain medication when their backs bother them. Physical therapy has also been effective for women with chronic back pain caused by large breasts.
When Problems Become Severe
Women with very large breasts might want to avoid breast reduction surgery, but in some cases, it is the best solution and is necessary to alleviate back pain and prevent spinal deformity. There are considerable risks associated with breast reduction surgery, such as reduced milk supply, decrease in the effectiveness of mammograms, and loss of nipple sensation, and it typically costs over $5,000. Many insurance policies don't cover breast reduction surgery.
An alternative to surgery is muscle balance therapy. With repeated sessions, spinal deformity can be prevented and back pain can be reduced over a long period of time.
Tags: large breasts, back pain, breast reduction, breast reduction surgery, large breasts
