Depending on the degree

of training or constriction, there is the much debated skeletal modification, in particular of the ribcage. For ease of training, modern corsets generally focus on the soft area between the ribs and pelvis. However, 18th and 19th century styles include intentional narrow tapering of the lower five or six rib pairs, sometimes with enough compression that the ribs nearly touch in front. The ribs below the sternum (the false and floating ribs) are very flexible and especially in women, these can be moved inward with relative ease with corset lacing. For many, this tapered chest is the ultimate goal for figure training and represents the ideal shape. This more constrictive style requires more commitment and a longer acclimatization or training period, because of the more pronounced reshaping of the ribs and the resultant increased feeling of restriction that is experienced at the beginning of the training period. But even this more significant form of figure training has not been associated with any long term health effects, other than the intended altered shape of the lower ribcage, the reduced maximum breathing volume and reduced stomach capacity. The organs within the lower ribcage will follow the outline of the changed ribcage shape, but without negatively affecting function. The organs are semi liquid and very mobile and flexible. They move when we move, bend stretch, as well as with every breath and with a change of stomach volume when consuming a meal. Just from breathing motion alone the organs below the diaphragm move several inches, demonstrating their fluidity and mobility. It leaves the primary effects to be a reduction in capacity of hollow organs such as the stomach, intestines and the lungs, and an altered position of the ribs.

The only health effects that have been confirmed and that are seen in today's tightlacers, are reduced stomach capacity by 25% to 75% and lung capacity by 10% to 30%. Neither of these are or create health risks, and the reduction in stomach capacity is certainly a welcome aid for anyone watching their weight and overall health! During the 1950's it was not uncommon to verify a corset's proper fit with x-ray scans before and after the application of the corset, to confirm repositioning and support for the abdominal organs. Valerie Steele's study was complimented by the CT scans of modern tightlacer Cathie Jung with a 15" waist and it  showed that even with her very tight lacing,  the effect on the position of the internal organs was not quite as dramatic as expected, certainly not beyond that what is seen during a pregnancy. Also, when the corset was removed the organs returned to their conventional positions without there being any observable change in their function.

Speculation and incorrect information

regarding the health risks of tight-lacing continues to be distributed by those who just do not know, although this is less so now than a few decades ago when corsets and especially tightlacing were viewed with great hostility. The accomplished tight lacers of today clearly demonstrate how long term training is both safe and effective. There are skin related issues that require attention, such as with chaffing or dry skin, or pressure spots. This can become a significant source of discomfort, if ignored. Also, light weight lingerie corset-like  garments can wrinkle and because of lack of structure can cause muscle pinching or cramps. Lastly, if training guidelines are ignored and the corset is laced too quickly or painfully tight, it is likely to cause some problems, such as muscle cramps. If the painful constriction is maintained, constipation can even occur, if the discomfort was the result of contracting the abdomen too quickly without acclimatization. Poorly made corsets can also be a problem, as they put strain on muscles and skin and cause discomfort. Recent research studies on the immediate effect of tight corsets on breathing and overall fatigue, indicate that there is fatigue when insufficient training is allowed for. Clinical studies on restrictive breathing show however, that with conventional gradual training this is not the case and only the maximum volume is restricted, meaning for heavy exercise there is a limitation, but for regular daily activity there is not. In most cases, the added oxygen requirement is met by a slight increase in breathing frequency.

Tight corsets will make the wearer less tolerant of poor eating habits, such as overeating, fatty foods, alcohol to name a few. Eating too much can produce heartburn, because of the pressure on the smaller stomach. With normal food intake, the added corset pressure is not an issue, because this tends to be small compared to the natural intra abdominal pressure. When the stomach is too full however, acid reflux can occur. Corset style also matters in this case, for example a pipe stem or a very narrow ribcage will put more pressure on the stomach than hourglass or hourglass like styles.  Simply avoid foods that irritate your stomach and eat only small portions but more often. By itself this is a healthy thing to do. Also, drink lots of water, eat fruits and vegetables to maintain proper balance. Fruits and vegetables and fiber content in general is important for the colon, to avoid constipation. If this is not watched carefully, tightlacing can sometimes cause constipation. And... lastly : do not over tighten. If these guidelines are followed, corseting will promote a healthier lifestyle and because of that can result in an overall improvement in health. Not because of the corseting, but because of improved eating habits and by paying more attention to the body.

...Continued