How can physical therapy help with breastfeeding?

Effective breastfeeding (or pumping!) relies on the flow of milk through ducts and nipple pores. This flow can become restricted with conditions like clogged ducts, mastitis, milk blebs, or scar tissue, causing pain, inflammation, and difficulty with feeding or pumping.

In order to feed effectively, infants need the muscles in their mouth and jaw to move well. This is best supported when there is tissue balance and mobility throughout their whole body. Babies with torticollis, plagiocephaly, tongue and lip ties, reflux, or difficulty sleeping often have soft tissue restrictions contributing to these problems.

Our specialized physical therapists offer hands-on treatment to address the restrictions that are often at the root of breastfeeding issues. We work collaboratively with lactation consultants and offer support when problems don’t go away or keep coming back despite all the best home remedies and treatments.

We make every effort to see infant and breastfeeding patients as soon as possible. Please contact our office for scheduling.