Doctors: Spanx, Other Shapewear Squeeze Your Organs

By Patch Editor Bob Pepalis

Spanx and other shapewear can be unhealthy if they are too restrictive and are worn too often, a trio of medical professionals told Huff Post Style.

Gastroenterologist Dr. John Kuemmerle, dermatologist Dr. Maryann Mikhail and chiropractor Dr. Karen Erickson were asked by Huff Post Style's Rebecca Adams if customers were "hurting our bodies in the name of smooth garment lines."

Georgia resident Sara Blakely is the founder of Spanx, which is headquartered in Buckhead.

Dr. Kuemmerle said shapewear compresses your stomach, intestines and bowel.

The numbness you might be feeling in your legs can be a sign of a reversible condition, but those genetically prone to varicosities can develop varicose veins and lymph congestion, said Dr. Erickson.

He also said don't use shapewear as a crutch to good posture.

And Dr. Mikhail said shapewear traps moisture and anything else under it, which can be a problem leading to yeast and bacterial infections.

Wear your Spanx or other shapewear for an evening or special occasion, and don't wear it while any symptoms are present.

Is squeezing your organs a concern when you wear your Spanx?