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BREAST SUPPORT FOR FEMALE ATHLETES
With the increasing numbers of physically active women, there has been a growing concern for adequate breast support/protection during participation in
sporting activities. The crux of the concern is protection of the suspensory ligaments of the breast tissue that are prone to stretching with the movement that occurs with running and jumping.
Repetitive, unprotected translation of the breast tissue with these activities will over stretch the suspensory ligaments of Cooper (Figure 1)  leading to premature sagging of the breasts. There are many manufacturers of
athletic clothing that are producing specialized bras for women who participate in all types of physical activities. These bras come in many styles and have some specialized features that make them preferable
over regular ones. 
Proper breast support/control is based on two different theories; either "divide and conquer" or "smash and control". For larger
breasted women (C-cup and greater), it is necessary to combine both principles. Specifically, it is necessary to separately support the breast tissue with good upward support as well as prov ide some minimal to moderate compression force to
bind the breast tissue to the chest wall. Often, this can be completed with one sports bra, but some female athletes find that two separate garments - one for support and one from
compression - do the trick. For female athletes who are not a large-breasted (A or B cup), one support garment that supplies compression is sufficient.
Other factors to consider in selection of an athletic bra include type of material, garment construction, and additional padding. The
material that the athletic bra is comprised of can provide perspiration absorption/wicking or warmth depending upon the climate. Skin sensitivity to certain fabrics may dictate material
selection as well. Garment construction to avoid seams over nipple area and other sensitive areas as well as provision of sufficient width in the support straps. Additional padding for contact sports
such as ice hockey may be placed inside the cup if needed.
Women should look for these features in an athletic bra:
- No irritating seams or fasteners next to the skin
- Non-slip straps of sufficient width to avoid digging into upper back/shoulders
- Good upward support especially for athletes with C-cup or greater
- Good compression that holds the breasts close to the body without affecting normal breathing patterns
- Firm, durable construction
- Appropriate material for perspiration control/wicking or warmth as needed
For further information on this or other sports medicine topics, please contact the medical professionals at Skyline Hospital's
Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine Clinic at (509)493-1101 from White Salmon/Bingen, (541)386-5348 from Hood River, (509)427-4083 from Stevenson or pt@skylinehospital.com
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