Breastfeeding and Physiotherapy

Mastitis and Blocked Ducts - How Physio can help! 

Firstly, CONGRATULATIONS on the arrival of your little one. 

Navigating through those first few weeks can be tricky, even more so if you're having a hard time breastfeeding. 

Breastfeeding is a learned skill - It can be such an amazing and joyful experience, but for some women it can be painful, debilitating and stressful. 

If you have any questions or difficulties breastfeeding please head over to the Australian Breastfeeding Association, contact your local Child and Family Health Nurse or book an appointment with your Doctor. You are not alone! 

How can Physiotherapy help Mothers who are breastfeeding?

I wish I was here to tell you we can help with the sore nipples, unfortunately that comes with the territory. BUT, there are a few common inflammatory conditions that physiotherapy can assist with recovery. 

Common inflammatory conditions of lactating breasts

Engorgement

Breast engorgement occurs when the milk comes in between two to four days after the baby is born. The breast can be hard and swollen which may restrict the flow of milk by compressing the ducts. This can make it difficult for the baby to attach and feed well. 

What you can do to relieve the discomfort of engorged breasts:

• Continuing breastfeeding on the effected side. Feeding on demand when the baby cues can help the milk flow. Change sides each time you begin a new feed.
• Hand expressing small amount of milk before the feeds can relieve the fullness in breasts. If this is uncomfortable then you can also stimulate some milk to flow by placing heat packs before the feeds for few minutes or having a hot shower.
• Cold packs can be used after the feeds as this helps to reduce the swelling. 

Blocked ducts and Mastitis

Mastitis is usually the result of a blocked milk duct that hasn't cleared. Some of the milk banked up behind the blocked duct can be forced into nearby breast tissue, causing the tissue to become inflamed. The inflammation is called mastitis. Infection may or may not be present. 

If you think you have mastitis, see your doctor.

Signs and symptoms

• Flu like symptoms - Possibly beginning with shivers and aches
• Very sore red and swollen breasts
• Hot breasts
• Shiny skin possibly with red streaks

It is common for the ill feeling to come on very quickly.

Treatment for blocked ducts and mastitis

• Your breast milk is safe for your baby even if you have mastitis, so continue to breastfeed or express from the affected breast.
• Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
• Rest as much as possible.
• Physiotherapy treatment consisting of Therapeutic Ultrasound, and effleurage or draining massage to clear the ducts.
• Seek medical help

If addressed early enough this may clear the duct and prevent infection.

A blocked duct can become mastitis within hours. If you can’t clear a blockage yourself, seek help! If antibiotics are prescribed by your doctor, take as directed.

How does therapeutic ultrasound work?

Therapeutic ultrasound is used to reduce pain and inflammation as well as increase circulation. The ultrasound machine delivers sound waves to the body that heat and provide a micro-massage to the breast tissue. This unclogs the ducts and fosters breast drainage and the gradual reduction of signs and symptoms. 

It’s important to bring your baby with you for treatment if possible as the baby helps clear the blockage once the ultrasound and massage have loosened it.

Contact us to discuss whether physiotherapy could help you.