Blocked Duct Physiotherapy Treatment for Breastfeeding Moms
It is very common for breastfeeding moms to experience a blocked or plugged milk duct. Ducts become blocked when milk fails to drain completely or if the duct becomes compressed or damaged.
Signs & Symptoms include:
- Pain
- Redness
- Warmth/swelling
- a hard tender lump
- feeling achy elsewhere in the body, run down or feverish
Physiotherapy can help by assessing, educating and providing treatment.
Treatment may include:
- education on breastfeeding positions
- postural education
- home self-massage techniques and exercises
- hands on treatment such as massage to surrounding areas and stretching
- and therapeutic ultrasound
Therapeutic ultrasound generates deep heat, which can aid in breaking up hardened milk that is blocking the milk duct. This is very effective if used in combination with warm compresses and massage.
Timely treatment is of the essence for a blocked milk duct. If left untreated, it may create an infection – known as mastitis. Physiotherapy treatment is often effective. Please note that if the blocked milk duct has become inflamed, the breast will be red, swollen, warm, and very painful. When it reaches this stage called mastitis, ultrasound and manual treatment is not appropriate because heat should not be applied to infected areas and we would recommend you consulting your doctor first.
Pricing:
- Physiotherapy Initial Assessment
(40 minutes): $99 - Physiotherapy Follow Up
(30 minutes): $87
