VERTICAL BREAST EXTENSION DURING TREADMILL RUNNING

Abstract

The aim was to quantify vertical movement of the breast beyond the anatomical position (breast extension) in various support conditions and to investigate the relationship of breast extension to breast pain, breast mass, and breast kinematics during running. The breast and trunk motion of 23 females of varying breast mass was recorded in a static no bra condition and during running in different support conditions. Static breast position was subtracted from dynamic position to calculate extension. In no bra, everyday and sports bra, the breast extended 21 mm, 9 mm, and 4 mm beyond the anatomical position. Breast extension displayed a strong relationship to breast pain and provides information on the mechanical loading of the breast beyond that of gravity. Therefore it is suggested that this measure could be considered alongside other breast kinematic variables.