Can Large Breasts Cause Pain in Your Upper Back?

Many individuals encounter upper back discomfort at some stage in life, whether from intense workouts, slouched posture, or an injury.

Signs of upper back pain can include sore muscles and sharp, stabbing sensations across the upper spine.

There’s a widespread belief that large breasts contribute to upper back pain in women. The idea is that the weight of the breasts places extra strain on the back’s ligaments and muscles, producing aches and tension.

That notion seems reasonable, but upper back pain is a widespread complaint that affects people of all sexes and breast sizes. So, what does the evidence indicate?

Is there a link between breast size and upper back pain?

The connection between large breasts and upper back pain seems to be more nuanced, involving several additional factors. Still, a limited body of research has shown an association between larger breasts and upper back discomfort.

A small 2013 study of postmenopausal women (many of whom were overweight or living with obesity) reported that thoracic (upper back) pain was connected with larger breast size. Some participants were also wearing bras that didn’t fit properly.

It’s probable that other elements, such as higher overall body weight or a compressed nerve, are important contributors to upper back pain as well.

There are various causes of upper back pain, including:

• damage to intervertebral discs, like a herniated disc
• osteoarthritis from the degeneration of spinal cartilage
• myofascial pain
• vertebral compression fractures

Upper back pain isn’t the only complaint linked to breast size.

A 2012 study looked at breast volume, bra cup size, and pain in the shoulders and neck. Researchers found that larger cup size was a significant factor associated with shoulder and neck pain.

Can wearing the wrong bra size cause upper back pain?

A small 2008 study investigating breast size, bra fit, and thoracic pain in young women found that 80 percent of participants were in incorrectly sized bras.

Additionally, women with larger breasts were more likely to be wearing the wrong bra size. It’s commonly thought that poor bra fit — and the subsequent changes in posture — could contribute to upper back pain.

The researchers noted that bra fit didn’t appear directly tied to reported pain. However, if a bra is badly fitted, it may not provide adequate support, which could lead to varying degrees of discomfort.

Takeaway

Breast size is frequently cited as a cause of upper back pain, and improperly fitted bras are often blamed as well.

Evidence indicates that while breast size isn’t the sole determinant of upper back pain, it can be a contributing factor.

You may relieve some back pain by strengthening core muscles in the abdomen and back. For guidance, consider breast firming exercises that also engage the surrounding musculature and try gentle routines aimed at improving posture and spinal support.

Maintaining adequate vitamin D and calcium may also help reduce back pain. A 2021 study linked low vitamin D levels to nonspecific lower back pain.

There’s also published literature indicating that breast reduction surgery can reduce back pain by improving posture. This option should be discussed carefully with a physician when evaluating the cause of pain and available treatments.

If your back pain continues or worsens, see a healthcare provider. Early diagnosis lets you begin appropriate treatment sooner and find relief.

For more information about related symptoms, you might find this article on veiny breasts helpful.