Hidden support for the lionesses: a breast/bra intervention.
Joanna Wakefield-Scurr1, Melissa Jones1, Brogan Jones1
1Research Group in Breast Health, School of Sport, Health and Exercise Science, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth, UK.
Research in Sports Medicine (Print)
|May 21, 2024
Summary
Elite women athletes often lack breast health knowledge, leading to pain and poor performance. This study provided tailored sports bras and education, significantly improving athlete knowledge and comfort.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Women's Health
- Biomechanics
Background:
- Inadequate breast support in sports negatively impacts female athletes' health and performance.
- Poor knowledge regarding breast anatomy and bra fit contributes to suboptimal bra selection among elite athletes.
- Breast pain and discomfort are prevalent issues affecting athletic participation and performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess breast and bra-related issues and preferences in elite women footballers.
- To evaluate the impact of individually prescribed sports bras and educational workshops on athlete outcomes.
- To establish an evidence base for future breast health initiatives in women's sports.
Main Methods:
- A multiphase intervention involving breast/bra workshops and individually prescribed sports bras for the England Senior Women footballers.
- Pre- and post-intervention surveys and breast/bra assessments were conducted.
- 36 players completed baseline assessments, with 24 completing post-intervention evaluations.
Main Results:
- Pre-intervention findings revealed widespread poor knowledge, ill-fitting bras, and prevalent breast pain (61%), with 25% experiencing clinically significant pain.
- Post-intervention, players reported significant improvements in knowledge (91%) and comfort with their prescribed sports bras.
- The intervention demonstrated a positive impact on athlete well-being and addressed cultural sensitivities surrounding breast health.
Conclusions:
- Individually prescribed sports bras and targeted education significantly enhance breast health knowledge and comfort in elite female athletes.
- This successful intervention provides a model for implementing comprehensive breast health strategies across all levels of women's football.
- Addressing breast health is crucial for optimizing female athletes' performance and overall well-being.
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