In the world of competition, women continue to break barriers and records in sports. For many, athletics is part of their lifestyle, and for others, their profession and livelihood. A recent article published by the Telegraph UK was an eye opener in terms of how many women involved in sports struggle with breast pain.
A portion of the article was dedicated to equestrians.
According to Radhika Sanghani of the Telegraph UK, a group of British Women admitted to having stopped participating in a particular sport due to breast pain.
“Last year a study from the University of Portsmouth’s Breast Health Research Group found that one in five women said breast pain was a barrier to exercise,” Sanghani wrote. She continued, “The same researchers are now working on a study about horse riding specifically, which will be launched in the next couple of months. Preliminary information from the study suggests that high numbers of riders struggle with breast pain – but Dr. Jenny Burbage, one of the researchers, tells me women participating in many sports tend to experience discomfort.”
Women who are naturally large chested may very well experience pain and find it awkward participating in sports. A client of mine, who was an equestrian and rode dressage for more than a decade, admitted the discomfort she experienced.
“It’s no surprise to me that this study in the United Kingdom revealed these numbers,” Ms. M said. “While I don’t ride anymore due to back issues, when I did it, there was discomfort. And despite whatever bra I wore, even one that was professionally fitted, there was never enough support for DDD.”
Ms. M admits she had never really thought about a breast reduction surgery at the time.
“Riding my horse was more of a hobby, but if I rode more, I would have definitely considered it,” she said. “I always felt that even my riding posture was off due to the weight I had to carry, too.”
In the article, it was also mentioned how some women may find how their athletic performance could be hindered due to breast pain, as well.
For women who live every day in discomfort because of this heavy weight, they not only complain about how challenging it is to take part in sports, but also in exercising. Additionally, finding fashionable garments which fit appropriately can be a quite a task.
Moreover, women who must carry this weight can suffer from the following:
- Neck pain
- Back pain
- Headaches
And more….
The article also made an interesting point that many athletes may not admit to the discomfort they feel. Sadly, a stigma may be present. And hopefully, through educational articles this stigma can be eradicated.
From the riding arena to the tennis courts, the publication also made mention of Simona Halep, who is considered a tennis celebrity. In her late teens, reports indicate she decided to undergo a breast reduction surgery from a 34DD to 34C.
She candidly told the press, which was also highlighted in the Telegraph UK, that prior to her surgery her skill on the courts was compromised.
She added, “My ability to react quickly was worse and my breasts made me uncomfortable.”
Following breast reduction surgery and full recovery, her ranking at 57 leapt to 4 in Paris.
It’s only natural that when people hear about breast reduction surgery that they think of aesthetics. But truly, breast reduction surgery should also be viewed as providing relief to women who have endured so much discomfort and pain.
