Bra options for support, yet not constrictive

Posted by vmcd @vmcd, Feb 7 10:18am

Since suffering from 12 compression fractures in 9 months time and having had spine surgery in 2023 I’ve yet to find a bra that supports without causing discomfort &/or pain. What’s available? I’ve asked a few doctors, physical therapists and nurses but no one has given an answer that has worked out…I’ve tried going a size up, sports bras, etc. the larger sized bras’ cups are too big. Any advice will be greatly appreciated.

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Profile picture for vmcd @vmcd

@daisy17 my bone strength was compromised after receiving over 6 months of steroid treatments for another condition. When my muscles were being strengthened my bones were weakened - I was elated that I could finally be independent, but when lifting a small bag of books I injured myself - not realizing that was my first of what would be many fractures - a few months passed before it was discovered that the cause of my pain was not due to overworking my muscles but from my spine collapsing. After being on Forteo for 3 months I finally stopped having fractures and each year have felt more improvement in the area of discomfort & pain.
Other fractures occurred by bending over to empty the dishwasher…a few during surgery and one just sitting in a chair (these were all before knowing how serious my condition was). Walking has been my salvation - distraction and spirit lifting relief. A verse that helped carry me through is “My health may fail & my spirit may grow weak, but God remains the strength of my heart; He is mine forever” Praying with, and for you & so many others with challenging health conditions.

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@vmcd Thank you for sharing your story. I am so sorry about your fractures, that must have been a slow and painful recovery period.

How are you doing now? It sounds like you are able to walk, so are you able to again do most daily activities, and how is your pain level?

I only ask these questions, because my osteoporosis is worse in my spine. So far I've avoided fractures and don't want to go on bone meds. Two of them, Forteo and Tymlos, are not an option for me anyway because I have parathyroid issues, which is part of the reason for my osteoporosis. My doctor has never mentioned Evenity, only recommended Fosamax. I've done research that Fosamax may give better DEXA scores, but is minimal in benefit in preventing fractures.

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I’ve never heard of Schroth PT. It looks interesting. I’ll look into it. Thank you!

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Profile picture for daisy17 @daisy17

@vmcd Thank you for sharing your story. I am so sorry about your fractures, that must have been a slow and painful recovery period.

How are you doing now? It sounds like you are able to walk, so are you able to again do most daily activities, and how is your pain level?

I only ask these questions, because my osteoporosis is worse in my spine. So far I've avoided fractures and don't want to go on bone meds. Two of them, Forteo and Tymlos, are not an option for me anyway because I have parathyroid issues, which is part of the reason for my osteoporosis. My doctor has never mentioned Evenity, only recommended Fosamax. I've done research that Fosamax may give better DEXA scores, but is minimal in benefit in preventing fractures.

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@daisy17 each year has been better - last Spring I was cleared to do physical therapy again which helped tremendously at the beginning for balance/strength/mobility, and pain relief but partway through something happened and my sessions while still helping me feel stronger, unfortunately brought back pain & discomfort. I’m still in a better place physically than I was last year. I actually walked even when going through that terrible year of fractures (3 years ago) it helped take my mind off of the pain and was a great spirit booster - being outside - hearing the birds, smelling fresh air, seeing life go on around me gave me a better perspective. I went from using a walker to using walking sticks and now feel comfortable not using any support unless I’m out walking by myself. I still use some of the same exercises they gave me. Lifting items from shelf to shelf - arm band stretches - getting from a kneeling position to standing up - step taps, etc.
My pain is not constant but still chronic - probably a 7 at its highest

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Profile picture for calofmichigan @calofmichigan

I’ve never heard of Schroth PT. It looks interesting. I’ll look into it. Thank you!

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@calofmichigan I should clarify that Schroth PT is designed for those with scoliosis NOT those having had corrective surgery. It initially occurred to me that PTs trained in Schroth might have more insight into the spine. On second thought, Schroth might NOT be safe for you post surgery.

Here is a link about the Schroth method from Johns Hopkins:
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/scoliosis/schroth-method-for-scoliosis

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Profile picture for calofmichigan @calofmichigan

I’ve never heard of Schroth PT. It looks interesting. I’ll look into it. Thank you!

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@calofmichigan I’m hoping I’m in the mild to moderate category - it sounds like a promising option

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I also have a Wacoal bra(underwire) that I like but I also have a very comfortable non- underwire bra, The Beyond Bra, by Evelyn and Bobbie. More importantly, if you can find an independent bra/lingerie store that can accurately measure you, that might be extremely helpful. I suggest avoiding a chain store. You will still need to try on many bras before you find something to purchase but the knowledge the measures has is helpful. They may be able to make recommendations based on your specific issues. You might even get to learn your “sister bra size”. Good Luck.

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Profile picture for 3sew1 @3sew1

I also have a Wacoal bra(underwire) that I like but I also have a very comfortable non- underwire bra, The Beyond Bra, by Evelyn and Bobbie. More importantly, if you can find an independent bra/lingerie store that can accurately measure you, that might be extremely helpful. I suggest avoiding a chain store. You will still need to try on many bras before you find something to purchase but the knowledge the measures has is helpful. They may be able to make recommendations based on your specific issues. You might even get to learn your “sister bra size”. Good Luck.

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@3sew1 thank you for the suggestions.

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