The Influence of Artificial Breast Volume Induction on Postural Stability, Postural Orientation, and Neuromuscular Control in Healthy Women: A Cross-Sectional Study

(1) Background: The percentage of breast augmentations has increased in recent years alongside the frequency of implant removals. Musculoskeletal and postural disorders are often overlooked during this removal process. Research indicates that excess anterior load from breast implants can disrupt postural control and potentially lead to short- or long-term musculoskeletal dysfunction. This study aims to evaluate the immediate changes in postural control after artificial breast augmentation in healthy female volunteers. (2) Methods: Spinal angles, the center of pressure (CoP), and electromyographic activity of the spinal muscles were recorded in the static position and during the functional reach test (FRT) without and with implants of different volumes (220 mL, 315 mL, and 365 mL). Subjective perceptions of effort, comfort, weight, and performance in the FRT were also assessed. (3) Results: Statistical differences were significant in the scapular elevator during the one-minute standing position (lower activation with the 220 mL implant compared to the control and 315 mL) and in the trapezius muscles during the FRT (lower activation in the upper trapezius in the 315 mL vs. control in the reach phase and 220 mL vs. control in the return phase and higher activation in the lower trapezius in the 315 and 365 mL vs. control in the reach phase). Additionally, significant differences were identified in the performance of the FRT and the associated subjective perceptions. (4) Conclusions: Breast implants with sizes of 220, 315, and 365 mL can alter scapular neuromuscular control, but these differences do not seem substantial enough to result in negative biomechanical effects in the short-term analysis.

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Publication Details

Journal
Applied Sciences
Published
2025-01-09
DOI
https://doi.org/10.3390/app15020579
Primary Topic
Scoliosis diagnosis and treatment
Type
article
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article

The Influence of Artificial Breast Volume Induction on Postural Stability, Postural Orientation, and Neuromuscular Control in Healthy Women: A Cross-Sectional Study

Andreia Noites, Bruno Cunha, Ana S. C. Melo, Juliana Moreira et al.
Applied Sciences
Scoliosis diagnosis and treatment
article

The Influence of Artificial Breast Volume Induction on Postural Stability, Postural Orientation, and Neuromuscular Control in Healthy Women: A Cross-Sectional Study

Andreia Noites, Bruno Cunha, Ana S. C. Melo, Juliana Moreira, Rubim Santos, Andreia S. P. Sousa, Diana C. Guedes, Lara Edna Santos Alves, Daniela F. Carneiro
article en

Abstract

(1) Background: The percentage of breast augmentations has increased in recent years alongside the frequency of implant removals. Musculoskeletal and postural disorders are often overlooked during this removal process. Research indicates that excess anterior load from breast implants can disrupt postural control and potentially lead to short- or long-term musculoskeletal dysfunction. This study aims to evaluate the immediate changes in postural control after artificial breast augmentation in healthy female volunteers. (2) Methods: Spinal angles, the center of pressure (CoP), and electromyographic activity of the spinal muscles were recorded in the static position and during the functional reach test (FRT) without and with implants of different volumes (220 mL, 315 mL, and 365 mL). Subjective perceptions of effort, comfort, weight, and performance in the FRT were also assessed. (3) Results: Statistical differences were significant in the scapular elevator during the one-minute standing position (lower activation with the 220 mL implant compared to the control and 315 mL) and in the trapezius muscles during the FRT (lower activation in the upper trapezius in the 315 mL vs. control in the reach phase and 220 mL vs. control in the return phase and higher activation in the lower trapezius in the 315 and 365 mL vs. control in the reach phase). Additionally, significant differences were identified in the performance of the FRT and the associated subjective perceptions. (4) Conclusions: Breast implants with sizes of 220, 315, and 365 mL can alter scapular neuromuscular control, but these differences do not seem substantial enough to result in negative biomechanical effects in the short-term analysis.

Applied SciencesVol. 15(2)
Centre for Health Technology and Services Research (PT), Universidade Portucalense (PT), Polytechnic Institute of Porto (PT)
Good health and well-being
Openalex Percentile: Top 99%
Scoliosis diagnosis and treatment
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