Kinesio Taping for Clogged Milk Ducts
Clogged milk ducts are one of the primary causes of reported pain with breastfeeding!
If you are dealing with a clogged milk duct check out our full blog on Clogged Milk ducts and evidence based treatment according to the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine
Currently experiencing an inflammatory breast conditions such as clogged milk ducts or mastitis?
We offer same day appointments for Therapeutic Ultrasound, evidence based treatment supported by the Academy of breastfeeding medicine to treat all conditions of the mastitis spectrum.
In addition to therapeutic ultrasound another treatment that has gained attention in recent years is Kinesio taping. Known for its use in sports medicine, Kinesio tape can also provide significant relief for breastfeeding moms dealing with inflammatory breast conditions. In this blog, we will explore how Kinesio taping works, its benefits, and how to apply it safely.
How Kinesio Taping Helps
Kinesio tape is a therapeutic elastic tape that’s commonly used by athletes to support muscles, reduce pain, and improve circulation. It works by gently lifting the skin, which changes the pressure gradient, therefore pushing fluid into the lymphatic vessels away from the inflamed area. When applied to the breast, Kinesio tape can aid in relieving a clogged milk duct by promoting lymphatic drainage and decreasing edema, both of which are essential for resolving these conditions.
How to Apply Kinesio Tape for a
Clogged Milk Duct
Gather supplies
You will need Kinesio tape, a pair of scissors, and clean, dry skin. Make sure the breast is free from lotions and oils, as this can affect the adhesive properties of the tape. Prior to applying the tape, test a strip on the skin to make sure there are no allergies or irritation from the adhesives.
Cut the tape
Measure the tape from the edge of your axilla to the border of the breast on the opposite side and then cut to that length. Round the corners of the tape. Cut 4 even pieces on the opposite side, they will be your tails.
Apply the Tape
Anchor the rounded edge at the border of the axilla. Pull the tail so there is tension in the tape and apply directly over the clogged milk duct, let the rest fall and adhere to the skin. Never apply directly over the nipple.
Check for Comfort
The tape should feel comfortable and supportive without causing tightness. If the tape feels too tight, gently remove it and reapply with less tension.
Wear for 3-5 days
Kinesio tape can be worn for several days, even while showering or breastfeeding. However, if you experience any discomfort or skin irritation, remove the tape immediately
Kinesio taping offers a gentle way to alleviate the discomfort of a clogged milk duct. By reducing swelling and relieving pressure, this method can support faster healing and make breastfeeding a more comfortable experience. Kinesio taping should never be the only method used for the management of inflammatory breast conditions though. The use of it in combination with cool compresses, NSAIDs, light lymphatic massage, and therapeutic ultrasound has been found by research to be the most effective way at preventing clogged milk ducts from progressing through the inflammatory spectrum to mastitis or an abscess.
If you are someone you know is experiencing a
breast condition on the mastitis spectrum,
we’d love to help!
We are committed to offering same day therapeutic ultrasound appointments (approved by the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine to be used in treatment for all mastitis spectrum conditions). Our visits include meeting with our lactation counselor to discuss likely cause and a treatment plan, as well as lymphatic massage and kinesio taping.
Are you a healthcare provider that works with breastfeeding families and wants to learn more about how to support and treat mothers experiencing a painful breast condition on that mastitis spectrum?
Check out our clinical Con Ed course Here which focuses on an update of treatment guidelines and implementation of therapeutic ultrasound and lymphatic massage.
