In a study of 500 elite female athletes across 46 different sports, 36% reported suffering breast injuries and 21% said those injuries negatively affected performance[1]. Therefore, it’s important to be aware of the different types of breast injuries and how we can manage them. So, let’s dive in… 

Types of breast injuries 

Breast injuries have only been recently identified and researched. As such, there is limited research available, and currently no research exists in golfers. From the research available, two types of breast injuries have been found to occur in female athletes: 

  1. Direct contact injuries: This is where there is a direct blow or impact to the breast. Research suggests that this type of breast injury typically occurs more frequently in those taking part in contact sports[1], with a reduced risk during golf. 
  2. Frictional skin injuries: This is where the skin around where the sports bra sits (i.e., breasts, shoulders, torso) experiences abrasions, rubbing and/or chaffing from friction between the skin and the sports bra (or other uniform/equipment). Research shows that athletes involved in longer duration sports, older athletes, and athletes with larger breasts, more commonly report frictional injuries[1]. 
Breast injury management 

Due to the lack of research available very little is known about how we can best manage breast injuries. However, some of the below strategies might help

Management of direct contact injuries: 

  • Have a medical review of your injury. Just like any other injury, you might sustain a medical review is important for your long-term breast health. 

  • Seek support from a physiotherapist. A physiotherapist can help to treat any soft tissue within the injured area to help reduce bruising and swelling. 

  • Increase breast support. Compression in the days after injury might help to reduce any pain and swelling. 

  • Choose a sports bra that offers built-in protection, such as Boob Armour if required for your sport. 
Management of frictional skin injuries: 

  • Ensuring that your sports bra correctly fits you. A bra that moves around more (e.g., a sports bra with a loose underband or straps) will be more likely to cause friction and/or chaffing). 

  • Alter the type of sports bra you wear. A sports bra that is made from a smooth and non-abrasive material will help to reduce friction and chaffing. Additionally, make sure that any hooks, fasteners or zippers are not in direct contact with your skin. 

  • Use anti-chaffing products. Using these types of products can help to create a proactive barrier between your skin and your sports bra, and in turn, reduce any friction and chaffing. 
References

[1]Brisbine, B. R., Steele, J. R., Phillips, E. J., & McGhee, D. E. (2019). The occurrence, causes and perceived performance effects of breast injuries in elite female athletes. Journal of Sports Science & Medicine, 18(3), 569