Blocked Milk Ducts

Physiotherapy for Blocked Milk Ducts

When you're breastfeeding, blocked milk ducts can happen – they often present as sore, tender spots on the breast and can make feeding uncomfortable. Fortunately, physiotherapy can help you manage this condition and improve your comfort during nursing.

Common Symptoms of Blocked Milk Ducts

• Localized pain or tenderness
• Lump or knots in the breast
• Swelling or redness
• Pain while breastfeeding or pumping
• Issues with milk supply

How Physiotherapy Can Help

• Massage and Heat: A physiotherapist can guide you in gentle breast massage and the use of warm compresses. This helps to soften the blocked area and promote milk flow.
• Positioning: Learn the most effective breastfeeding positions to reduce duct pressure and prevent future blockages.
• Therapeutic Ultrasound: This painless treatment helps break down stubborn clogs by stimulating the tissue and improving milk flow.
• Manual Expression: Physiotherapists can teach you how to manually express milk to relieve blockages, especially when baby isn't able to drain the breast fully.

In short, physiotherapy offers practical solutions for resolving blocked milk ducts. With the right guidance, you can reduce discomfort, support healing, and make breastfeeding a smoother experience.