What is mastitis and how can we help you?

 

Mastitis, blocked ducts and engorgement are common complications that can occur whilst breastfeeding or expressing. Inflammation is a key process that underpins all of these conditions and contributes to the commonly reported symptoms of the following symptoms:

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• Pain

• Swelling

• Redness

• Reduced milk flow

• Sometimes fever

 

Physiotherapy utilises therapeutic ultrasound, massage and lymphatic drainage techniques, advice, and education to help reduce inflammation and pain, and improve milk flow. Our team in Kensington, London, has many years of experience in managing these conditions and has an extensive network of specialists that we work with to offer comprehensive assessment and advice, so that you feel supported throughout your feeding journey.

 

At your appointment, your physiotherapist will discuss with you the history of your current symptom episode and daily routine, as well as your obstetric and previous medical history. They will ask you about how you have been managing your symptoms so far, and who else you may be been seeing for support. Following this, and with your consent, your physiotherapist will examine both breasts to assess the extent of your symptoms. They will then discuss the findings of this with you and outline a treatment plan - this may include some or all of the following treatments, depending on your needs:

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• Therapeutic ultrasound

• Massage

• Lymphatic drainage techniques

• Advice and education about how to manage your symptoms moving forwards

• Self-help techniques to prevent reoccurrences

 

You are welcome to bring someone to accompany you to the appointment for support. We also understand that childcare can be difficult to organise at often short notice, therefore baby is also welcome at all appointments.