Moms are Seeking Physical Therapy Treatment for Blocked Milk Ducts

WEBWIRE – Tuesday, August 11, 2015

Physical Therapy Relieves Blocked Milk Ducts

Marianne Ryan, PT, author of Baby Bod, explains “physical therapy intervention has proven to be very helpful if a mother is unable to unblock a milk duct on her own. Time is of the essence".

A normal part of breastfeeding is experiencing fullness in the breasts, which occurs as the breasts fill up with milk. This can be uncomfortable, but problems can arise if a mother is not able to empty her breasts enough by nursing her baby or pumping her breasts. If the milk remains in the blocked duct it can form a “plug” and a painful lump in the breast. In severe cases, moms run the risk of developing a bacterial infection, called mastitis.
There are a handful of physical therapists that are trained to treat blocked milk ducts. A very specific massage technique and therapeutic ultrasound is used to help pump the milk out and unblock the duct. This type of treatment can help prevent mastitis from developing and it is best to start treatment within twenty-four hours of a duct becoming blocked; but many women respond to treatment if performed later.

Marianne Ryan, PT, who is the award-winning author of Baby Bod explained, “physical therapy intervention has proven to be very helpful if a mother is unable to unblock a milk duct on her own. Time is of the essence. In our Manhattan practice, MRPT Physical Therapy, we also emphasize patient education so each woman learns how to clear any future blockages.”

To read more and learn self-treatment techniques click here.

The Physical Therapists at Marianne Ryan Physical Therapy, in Midtown Manhattan, have advanced training in a wide range of women’s health issues, including the treatment of blocked milk ducts. They offer hands-on treatment for pain relief along with safe and effective exercise programs.

For a free preview of the book, visit the website to download: “Want to Flat Tummy? Skip Sit-Ups!” The article offers safe evidenced based exercises that will help flatten that mommy tummy.

Note: If you do try to find a therapist for treatment make sure to ask if they have advanced training in women’s health issues and whether they have experience in treating blocked milk ducts.