Clogged Milk Ducts - Physiotherapy can help!

Clogged ducts can be defined as when “the breast has an area of localized milk stasis.” At times, this can result in noninfectious mastitis, an inflammation of the breast. When inflammation restricts milk flow, it can cause pain and swelling, as well as reduced venous and lymphatic drainage.

Clogged ducts or Mastitis can happen at any time while breastfeeding, but it is most common during the second and third week postpartum. Milk stasis is usually the primary cause, which can occur when milk is not removed from the breast efficiently. Without effective removal of milk, non-infectious mastitis is likely to progress to infectious mastitis. Early intervention is advised.

Blocked ducts are associated with breast engorgement and may result in a localized tender breast lump or area of blushed color. The breast may feel hot.

A Lactation Consultant can be a great resource for improving breastfeeding technique - Studies show that good attachment from your baby and effective milk removal will keep the risk of developing infectious mastitis low.

How Can Physiotherapy Help?

Ultrasound Therapy can facilitate the removal of milk from the engorged breast by facilitating milk let-down, leading to less pain and hardness. It can also improve venous and lymphatic drainage of the breasts, which aids in the reduction of inflammation and pain. It is a safe, non-invasive way to relieve pain and swelling while supporting breastfeeding.

Lymphatic Drainage is a very gentle massage, done by using light sweeping motions towards the axilla. It helps clear the inflammatory fluid toward the axillary lymph nodes.

Kinesiology Tape can help improve lymphatic drainage after the ultrasound treatment. You can keep the tape for 5 days.

To achieve the best results, it is important for moms to breastfeed or pump after the treatment. One or two treatments are usually enough.