Study of Sports Bras to Reduce Neck, Shoulder, Arm, and Back Pain in Full-Busted Women and Explore Hormonal and Brain Factors

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating how mechanical and non-mechanical factors contribute to chronic neck, shoulder, arm, and back pain in full-busted women. This study focuses on women with larger bra cup sizes, exploring how sex hormones, inflammation, and brain changes affect pain. The project aims to fill gaps in understanding pain mechanisms in women with chronic musculoskeletal pain related to breast size. The study evaluates a mechanical intervention using specially designed sports bras for full-busted women cup sizes D to I to see if they help reduce pain. Participants in the intervention group will receive one of two types of interventional sports bras to wear for three months. A control group of women with smaller cup sizes A to C will be observed without receiving the intervention. Both groups will undergo various baseline and follow-up assessments over three months. Participants will complete online and in-person sessions including questionnaires, pain assessments, body measurements, blood tests, and brain imaging at the start and after three months. Physical activity will be monitored using a smartwatch during the study period. Researchers will collect multiple measures to understand pain, activity, hormone levels, inflammation, biomechanics, and brain activity. The study lasts at least three months, with detailed follow-up to assess the impact of the sports bras and related pain pathways.

Hormones, Outcomes, and Pain Pathways in Exercise Study