journal article·2025-01-09Open access

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

Diana C. Guedes, Daniela F. Carneiro, Leonel A. T. Alves, Ana S. C. Melo, Juliana Moreira, Bruno Cunha, Rubim Santos, Andreia Noites, Andreia S. P. Sousa

Applied Sciences· Volume 15· Issue 2

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.
Source: crossref · Quality: baseline

Research context

OpenAlex topics: Scoliosis diagnosis and treatment · Musculoskeletal pain and rehabilitation · Breast Implant and Reconstruction

SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.

Affiliations

Center for Rehabilitation Research (CIR), ESS, Polytechnic of Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 400, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal

Department of Physiotherapy, School of Health, Polytechnic Institute of Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 400, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal

CINTESIS@RISE, CINTESIS.UPT, Portucalense University, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 541, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal

Department of Physics, School of Health, Polytechnic Institute of Porto, Rua Dr. António Bernardino de Almeida, 400, 4200-072 Porto, Portugal

Funding

Fundação para a Ciência e Tecnologia (FCT)

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