Why wearing even the right size of bra can cause pain!

It is a common fact now that wearing the wrong bra size can give you multiple health issues, like shoulder pain and even headaches.

But, let’s say you got your bra size checked and wear one that perfectly lifts your pair. Now, are you still open to any bra-related discomforts? Yes! Now, that’s a bummer.

Medically known as costoclavicular syndrome and colloquially known as bra strap syndrome, your bra straps can pressurize your shoulders and cause pain in neck, shoulders and arm. Here’s everything you need to know about bra strap syndrome and how to prevent it.

When you wear bras that have very narrow straps and /or cut very sharply on your shoulders because they are really tight, they may compress the veins and arteries around your neck and shoulders. This is especially common in women who are obese, big-breasted or elderly. When brassiere straps cut into the soft tissues around your shoulders, they exert downward pressure on clavicles. This, in turn, narrows the costoclavicular passage. When this happens, it also shears away the neurovascular bundle.

As a result of this, women who face this can tend to experience severe pain in neck and shoulders. It can also lead to stiffness or fatigability in the affected area. The pain may aggravate with exertion and can be controlled by rest. If you carry heavy bags and shopping bags around on your shoulders, the pain can pronounce. Also, it may be absent or less in the mornings and can progress as the day progresses, says a study by NCBI. Also, it may lead to indentation or development of ’round shoulders’ in women.

The first way to find it is by, of course, checking for any pains in shoulders, neck and arms. You may also look for tingling in arms. Some women may also experience swollen or puffy hands and turning blue of the hands. Another simple first step could be to look for indentation in the shoulders after the bra has been removed. If the marks are temporary and go away easily, the damage may not be much. But if they tend to stay longer, your underlying tissue may be damaged.

The good news is that bra strap syndrome is entirely preventable. The foremost way can be by not wearing a bra at all whenever possible. Take it off when you sleep and whenever you are at home and can do so. Secondly, look for bras that fit you well, are not very tight and have broad straps. Also, regular exercise and a good posture can help you keep it at bay.

Okay, so if you are no more eligible for the prevention phase and suspect the problem already, here are a few things you can do. Firstly, try to switch to a strapless bra if that’s possible, at least for the time being. Heat the affected area for 10 minutes daily and moisturize it thoroughly. Practice yoga or exercise but under expert supervision. Also, avoid carrying anything heavy on your shoulders. You must also seek a doctor who can help you treat the problem for good.