When you’re dealing with psoriatic arthritis pain, the last thing you probably want to do is put on a bra. I have had psoriasis for 55 years and psoriatic arthritis for 25 years. I never thought, in my 60 years on this earth, that I would be writing about my undergarments. When I told my husband, he was like, “Oh, God, don’t do it!!”
As a woman, wearing a bra is often seen as a requirement. From the time we are 9 or 10 years old, we’re introduced to these things. I have always thought they were uncomfortable, and if you have psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis, this discomfort becomes a double whammy.
I feel physically uncomfortable without one and would never leave home without it. Yet putting on a bra is a simple daily activity that healthy people often take for granted.
The Uncomfortable Reality
I recall my first bra—those tight training bras that never stayed in place. I would itch and scratch all day with that miserable thing on. Next came the wired bra, which as a teenager I found the worst invention ever. That wire tortured me.
I remember getting dressed for a school PTA meeting on a hot May day. I had to wear the slip and bra, and my back was badly covered with psoriasis, making it hard to reach. Sitting with my parents, I felt increasing pain and itching, as if the bra’s material was cutting into my skin.
I excused myself to the bathroom and cried—I just couldn’t wait to get home and take it off. Those bras rubbed against already sensitive skin and made sitting through that meeting unbearable. I often felt the bra had more material than my blouse!
Progress, But More to Do
Have bras improved since the 70s? Yes—they are softer with less material, but they still have straps fastened at the back—a very vulnerable part of the body for someone with psoriasis or arthritis.
I believe one day designers will create specific bras for women with diseases, taking into account the science of our conditions. These bras will use the right materials, be strapless or adhere gently to the skin—designed to prevent irritation and pain.
I’ve struggled my whole life adjusting to uncomfortable bras because of my disease. Many women without psoriasis or arthritis already hate wearing them. What more can I say?
Comfort Is Key
With my current PsA pain, I’ve found that comfortable bras and leggings are my best friends. I don’t need anything cutting off circulation or digging into my skin.
People often take clothing for granted, but when you have a skin disease, you want something soft and gentle against your skin. You want your body to feel free of anything rubbing or tight, anything that compromises circulation.
The Right Fit and Independence
One thing I’ve learned over the years is that it’s very important to get a bra that fits properly. I’ve spent a lot of money trying to find the right one.
Nowadays, I mostly wear sports bras because they are far more comfortable. They support everything without wires and reduce pain in my neck, shoulders, and back.
Independence can take many forms—it may look a little different than what you expect, but it’s just as valuable.
I am truly grateful for the upgrades in today’s bras for women.