Abstract

Background: Breast hypertrophy affects personal relationships, attracts unwanted attention, especially from men, and is likely to cause muscular discomfort and overstretching of the skin envelop, which can lead to ulceration. Objectives: To determine the difference in musculoskeletal pain, sexual function and physical activity levels between women with and without breast hypertrophy as well as to analyse the relationship between breast sizes versus musculoskeletal pain, sexual function and physical activity.Methodology: A cross sectional study design was used. One hundred and fifty married women with and without breast hypertrophy attending the gymnasium of the Physiotherapy Department, Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, Afficent gymnasiumand Sharada gymnasium were included in the study using a purposive sampling technique. Breast cup sizes, musculoskeletal pain, female sexual function and physical activity levels of participants were measured using a measuring tape, Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and General Practice Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPPAQ), respectively.Results: Results demonstrated no significant (p>0.05) differences in musculoskeletal pain, sexual function and physical activity levels between women with and without breast hypertrophy. Moreover, there was no significant relationship between breast sizes versus musculoskeletal pain, sexual function and physical activity levels of participants.Conclusion: There is no difference between women with and without breast hypertrophy with respect to musculoskeletal pain, sexual function and physical activity levels. A large proportion of participants are sexually dysfunctional with a marked percentage being physically inactive. Women with breast hypertrophy should be encouraged to engage in physical activities.

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