The effects of mammary hypertrophy on the skeletal system.

Women with mammary hypertrophy usually have a number of complaints relating to the skeletal system. Neck strain, headache, aching shoulders, heavy anterior chest, and paresthesias of the little fingers disappear after reduction mammaplasty. Low back pain is either completely eliminated or dramatically improved. Posture may or may not be corrected. It is suggested that muscle reeducation be instituted in patients who do not show spontaneous improvement. Deep brassiere strap furrows may vanish after a long postoperative period, or they may be permanent. In any case, they become asymptomatic. The effects of hypertrophic breast on the skeletal system are many and varied. A few such problems are illustrated. Many more exist.