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Ultrasound for Mastitis

For Women > Physiotherapy > Treatment > Ultrasound for Mastitis

Breastfeeding comes with many benefits for both mum and baby. It can be a wonderful and challenging experience all at the same time.  Whether you are a new or experienced breastfeeding mum, painful blockages can develop in the breast tissue which can be distressing and disrupt your ability to effectively nurse.

What is a blocked duct?

When milk is not effectively removed from the breast, milk stasis occurs leading to a blocked or “clogged” duct. This occurs when there is compression of the duct, restricting milk flow, creating a blockage. Milk can build up behind the blockage causing a hard lump which may be painful and red. A bleb, or a small white bump on the nipple, may form also creating a further reduction or cessation of milk flow. It is estimated that 60% of breastfeeding women experience blocked milk ducts.

Typically, a blocked duct will improve within 24-48 hours. However, if the ducts do not clear on their own, the stasis of the milk can progress to mastitis and eventually abscess formation. Mastitis is the inflammation of the breast with symptoms such as redness, breast pain, swelling and generalized flu-like symptoms. Mastitis can be infective or non-infective – meaning an infection may or may not be present. It is important to treat the blocked duct early before it progresses to an infective mastitis.

What is the treatment for a blocked duct and how can a physiotherapist help?

Treatment of a blocked duct includes frequent feeding to promote breast drainage, heat, rest, gentle massage toward the nipple, compression of the involved area during feeding, positioning of the baby with the tongue and chin pointing toward the blockage to provide maximal clearing, expressing or pumping milk after breast feeding to fully empty the breasts, use of cold after feeding to help decrease swelling and pain, and avoidance of restrictive clothing or pressure on the breast.

Women’s Health physiotherapists can also assist in the treatment of blocked ducts using a modality called therapeutic ultrasound. Ultrasound is a proven, painless technology which is safe for use.

An ultrasound machine is used to break up the clog and results in decreased pain and a return to normal flow of milk. It also helps healing of the tissues and improves blood flow in the area.

What to expect during a physiotherapy session for blocked milk ducts?

  • Assessment to determine affected areas
  • Obtaining a history on breastfeeding and factors that may have contributed to the blocked duct or mastitis
  • Ultrasound applied to the affected breast tissues by our Women’s Health Physio (Usually requiring 2-3 sessions every 1-2 days). The ultrasound probe is moved around the affected breast tissues for around 10 minutes. It is not painful and a gentle warmth may be felt.
  • Breastfeeding advice and treatment plan regarding positioning, what to do before breast feeding and how to maximise milk flow and reduce duct compression. We may also refer or work alongside a lactation consultant if required
  • Demonstrations on how to properly self massage
  • Use of tape if necessary

Do I need antibiotics?

This is something that needs to be assessed by and discussed with your doctor. Usually It is only infective mastitis in which antibiotics are required. If you have a fever, please ensure that you see a doctor to assess your need for antibiotic treatment.

If you have any questions on therapeutic ultrasound for blocked ducts, please do not hesitate to contact our women’s health physiotherapists who can help with your condition.

 

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Google Reviews

JO

The therapist (Maureen) was great. Very experienced, patient and caring, made me feel very comfortable throughout the entire 4 sessions I had with her. Will definitely recommend her to anyone who needs such therapy. The counter staff are very responsive, friendly and efficient. Understanding and prompt in accommodating requests to make changes to appointments. Prompt service and zero waiting time during all my 4 sessions there. Overall, excellent standard of care and service. Keep up the good work!

Joanna Tang
PR

Thanks to physiotherapist Maureen’s patience, understanding and expert guidance, I was able to make significant progress in my condition over three sessions! Most of all, her empathy, assuring presence and listening ear helped me to feel understood, comforted and supported in my anxieties. Will fully recommend the clinic and Maureen as a wonderful community resource for women & children issues.

Priscilla Teo
HO

So far good experience. Dr Maureen is nice and friendly so I didn't feel awkward throughout. She's also knowledgeable and prioritize my comfort. The receptionist is pleasant as well. Overall, I feel cared for and safe to have my womanly issues treated at their clinic

Honey Bee
SH

I was referred by my gynac for my pelvic gridle pain. I have been working with Maureen and I'm super delighted with the way she has been handling my issue. She is extremely patient and explains well. I have been to physios earlier but never really seen satisfying results; this is the first time I feel it's worth it cause I'm able to see how it is making a difference. I still have a few sessions to go but I'm glad I signed up and I look forward to my appointments. There is no hard selling, and the reception staff is super warm and helpful. Overall, very good experience.

Sheetal Bodke
NE

I’m happy with my overall experience consulting this clinic through Maureen. She educated me well about vaginismus and go through with me patiently with all the FAQs in my head. I’m progressing now with her guidance and support. Thank you.

Nee zzii
JE

I've been seeing Ms Maureen for my pelvic floor after birth and she has been great in showing me exercises to strengthen my weak pelvic floor after my third birth. Ms Maureen takes time to explain the anatomy to me which makes it easier for me to follow and excel the exercises. I always look forward to the appointments with her as she is also such an amazing person to chat with. Also, the ladies at the front desk are very friendly and approachable. Love coming to this clinic!

Jeannie Liew
DE

Staff is very friendly and accommodating. Very easy to make an appointment too. The physiotherapist is very knowledgeable and kind. Will definitely come back to complete all my sessions.

Deanna Manuel
NU

I was referred by my gynae to WACC and the physiotherapist, Maureen helped with the weakening of my pelvic muscles post delivery. Maureen is extremely knowledgeable and patiently explained the exercises that would help improve my condition. It has certainly helped and I can see improvement in strengthening the pelvic muscles.

Nur'rashikin Abdul Rashid
NO

Maureen was able to accommodate my urgent session and helped relieve my pain tremendously.

Normini

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East Gate @ Katong

46 East Coast Road, East Gate @ Katong

#07-03

Singapore 428766

Orchard

545 Orchard Road,

#08-07A Far East Shopping Centre,

Singapore 238882

Physio & Sole Clinic

Phone: 9126 8257

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Email: contact@physioandsole.com

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