MASTITIS - & other Inflammatory Conditions of the Breast

Mastitis is an inflammatory reaction within your breast tissue that may or may not be associated with infection. Primarily this is caused by milk that is not drained from the breast and remains stagnant. Milk stasis is where the milk isn't moving our from the breast as optimally as we would like. This results in pressure building up in the milk ducts causing milk to disperse into the adjacent tissues, triggering an inflammatory reaction.

Some of our Osteopaths have further training in treating inflammatory conditions of the breast, such as mastitis, blocked ducts, milk blebs and engorgement. We use a range of hands-on techniques, as well as therapeutic ultrasound.

We will provide you with some home exercises and personalised advice to help reduce the inflammation and allow you to continue on your breast feeding journey

Here are some COMMON CAUSES of Mastitis:

  • Ineffective milk removal through positioning (Mum has a sore neck or shoulder) or issues with the baby’s latch (could be a result of tongue tie or infant torticollis)

  • Over-supply of milk

  • Missed or delayed feeds, or an abrupt end to breastfeeding

  • Cracked or damaged nipples

  • Compression of the breast from ill-fitting or underwire bras

  • Blocked milk duct

We find that in many cases antibiotics can be avoided if treated using anti-inflammatory measures.

Mastitis SYMPTOMS can vary between people but below are some common symptoms:

  • Redness & shiny taut skin on the breast

  • Painful, hard, lumpy area of breast tissue

  • Pain moving the arm on the same side as the affected breast

  • Fever, chills or flu-like symptoms

Common Mastitis Misconceptions:

  • Mastitis always needs to be treated with anti-biotics: The research and updated guidelines by the Academy of Breastfeeding (protocol #36) in 2022 does not support antibiotics as a first line treatment for mastitis. Anti-biotics are only needed for infectious mastitis

  • I need to massage my breast firmly to remove the blockage: Research has now shown that mastitis is caused by inflammation of the breast tissue, therefore firmly massaging will likely lead to further inflammation. We recommend 5-10% pressure for all massage.

  • I need to stop breastfeeding my baby: It is important to continue to breastfeed your baby on demand so that you encourage a normal supply. Changes in breastfeeding schedules, or suddenly stopping, are potential causes of mastitis

  • I need to increase my breastfeeds or pump to clear the blockage: Increasing your feeds or pumping will increase your supply and may even lead to hyperlactation which can cause mastitis.

WHAT YOU CAN DO:

  • Drain the breast, either by breastfeeding as normal or using a pump

  • Cold compress/ or gentle heat (see which option gives you the most relief)

  • Rest - this is really important. You may need to ask family and friends for some help.

  • Drink water

  • Probiotics (we recommend Qiara - it's the only probiotic that contains human breast milk strain Lactobacillus Fermentum)

HOW WE CAN HELP: 

  • Therapeutic Ultrasound - this provides an energy that creates vibration and gentle heat to help shift inflammation and reduce pain, improve circulation and aid the lymphatic system in clearing a blockage. The ultrasound is applied directly over the inflamed tissue.

  • Specialised therapeutic breast massage & lymphatic drainage techniques

  • We will provide you with the skills to do some of these techniques and exercises at home

  • Alongside manual therapy techniques directly to the breast tissue

  • Referral to a lactation consultant to address any issues with latching, damaged nipples or tongue ties and other feeding issues that may be contributing to your symptoms

  • Referral to the GP, lactation consultant, or MCH nurse, or for a diagnostic ultrasound if we suspect there is an infection or abscess

We understand that Mastitis is an acute condition and that you need treatment and support as soon as possible. For this reason, we hold appointments each day to ensure that you are seen to as quickly as possible. If you cannot find a suitable time online, please call our reception team on 9589 7815 and we will arrange something for you.