Is Your Bra Giving You Shoulder Pain? Solutions For Bra Discomfort

Shoulder pain is a common condition among women and is often caused by the type of bra they use. For that reason, knowing the relationship between bras and shoulder pain is important. In this guide, we will check out the reasons why bras can be painful for shoulders, the importance of finding the correct size of bra, and introduce new concepts like sleeping bras and front-opening bras. We will also emphasize exercises and the role of correct posture for shoulder pain treatment.

Connection Between Bras And Shoulder Pain

Bra strap shoulder pain is often attributed to a condition known as bra strap syndrome, or costoclavicular syndrome. This syndrome occurs when the bra straps exert pressure on the sternum and shoulders, leading to pain and discomfort in the neck, shoulders, and back.

Common symptoms of bra causing shoulder pain are: 

• Chronic pains in the neck and shoulder regions
• Rarely, the skin may experience redness where the bra straps sit on it, or indents may be left on the skin.
• Headaches and stiffness
• Exercise or having to carry bags causes pain.

Common Reasons Why Bras Cause Shoulder Pain

• Tight Straps: Tight or narrow straps can put a lot of pressure on the shoulders and the nerves and blood vessels of that region, leading to pain and discomfort.
• Incorrect Size: 80% of women wear bras that are incorrect sizes, and hence, the shoulders are burdened by the excess weight.
• Heavy Breasts: Women with heavy breasts may suffer increased pain since the breast tissue will pull shoulders down in cases of muscle exhaustion.
• Poorly Designed Bras: Bras with thin straps, less coverage and insufficient support can cause ill-fitting on the bust and cause bra shoulder pain.

Importance Of Choosing The Right Fitting Bra

To get relief from bra-related shoulder pain, wearing a correctly fitted bra is important. Here are some tips for finding the right fit: 

• Measure Regularly: From time to time, monitor the size of your band and cup to make sure you are wearing the right size. Note that changes in weight, shrinkage, or any other changes in one's physical appearance may influence the fit.
• Check The Straps: The straps should hug your shoulders without leaving red marks. The underband should provide 80% of the support, with the strap providing the remaining 20%.
• Choose Wider Straps: This is because wider straps spread out weight, causing less pressure on the shoulders. 
• Consider The Style: Select comfortable bras, preferably front-closure or sleep styles, to prevent the bra's pressure on the shoulders.

Introducing Sleep Bras And Front Open Bras

Sleeping bras and front-open bras are often considered the right bra for shoulder pain reduction. We will go through some details about these revolutionary bra types:

1. Sleep Bra

• Soft Fabric & Slip On Design: Made from soft, stretchy cotton for flexibility and comfort, with a simple slip-on design that’s easy to put on without any clips or hooks.
• Full Coverage & Secure Fit: Offers complete coverage and prevents spillage of breasts during the day or while sleeping.
• Comfortable & Wire-Free: Wire-free design provides ease of movement and comfort, allowing for easy blood flow without discomfort.
• Supportive Racerback Design: This design reduces backaches, corrects posture and evenly distributes breast weight on your back, giving support to the fuller breasts and preventing sagging and stretch marks.
• Breathable & Quick-Drying Fabric: Non-padded, single-layer cotton enhances breathability, absorbs sweat quickly, and dries fast to keep you comfortable. Try Adira’s sleep bras for maximum comfort.

2. Front Open Bra

The types of bras listed below are highly convenient to wear. It will help you get relief from bra-related shoulder pain. Here are some key features of a front open bra: 

• Versatile & Easy To Wear: Front-open design with snap buttons makes it quick and hassle-free to put on and take off. It is also used as going out bras under tees, tops and kurtis.
• Comfortable & Supportive: No back clasps to dig into your skin, plus it's non-padded and wire-free for breathability and comfort. The racerback design gives support, keeps shoulder straps from slipping off and helps with posture correction. 
• No Spillage: Full coverage with a high underarm cut prevents breast spillage in the front and sides.
• Soft & Stretchy: Made from a blend of cotton and elastane for a soft feel and the right amount of stretch for all-day comfort.
• Enhances Shape: Cut-and-sewn cups help enhance your natural shape, with a double layer to prevent nipple show.
• Accessible: Great for women with mobility issues.
• Post-Surgery Care: A front-open bra makes it easier to manage post-surgery care, especially during doctor visits for check-ups. Try Adira’s front open bras for unmatched support and comfort.

Exercises To Strengthen Shoulder And Back Muscles

For shoulder pain treatment, try to do these exercises that target the shoulder and back areas in your daily routine. Here are some effective exercises: 

• Shoulder Shrugs: This posture involves raising your arms sideways at the sides of your body. Jerk your shoulders up towards your ears, pause for some time, and then bring your shoulders down again. Repeat 10-15 times.
• Wall Angels: Start with your back facing a wall, extending your arms to form the sides of your body in a ‘W'-like formation. Start curling your arms up the wall in a 'Y' position, and then lower them down the wall repeatedly. Repeat 10 times.
• Chest Stretch: You can stand in the doorway and put your hands on the opening part of the frame. Bend forward, slowly affecting the stretch on the chest and shoulders. Hold for 15 to 30 seconds.
• Upper Back Stretch: Stand firm or sit down, and join your fingers in front of your body in a fist. Slightly round your stomach and pull your fingers as far apart from your body as possible. Hold for 15 to 30 seconds.

Posture Tips to Reduce Bra-Induced Shoulder Pain

Adopting good body posture can reduce shoulder pain. Here are some tips: 

• Sit Up Straight: When sitting, make sure your posture is good. Your back should be straight and your shoulders should be relaxed. 
• Adjust Your Workspace: If you are a desk-bound employee, make sure that your chair and desk height are correct to avoid bad posture. 
• Take Breaks: Take a short walk or do a neck and shoulder stretch at least once every half hour. 
• Carry Weight Evenly: When using bags or purses, try to put weight on both sides of the body to prevent strains

Conclusion

Bra fit and shoulder pain are interrelated. If you have shoulder discomfort, it's time to change the bras you wear. Choosing the right bra, such as a sleep bra or a front open bra, performing mandatory exercises, and following the right postures in daily life can give you relief from bra-related shoulder pain. 

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