Therapeutic Ultrasound for Inflammatory Breast Conditions on the Mastitis Spectrum
Clogged milk ducts are now considered to be on the mastitis spectrum and have been identified as the most significant predictor of mastitis in the first few months postpartum. Treatment and prevention is key to keeping lactating women healthy and supporting their breastfeeding relationship.
In 2022, the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine updated their Mastitis Protocol regarding how to treat conditions on the mastitis spectrum. Therapeutic ultrasound was included and identified as an effective way to help decrease inflammation therefore improving the clogged milk duct and preventing it from progressing through the spectrum to a more severe condition.
What is therapeutic ultrasound?
Therapeutic ultrasound is a noninvasive procedure that uses ultrasound waves to generate an electrical signal that passes through the skin causing a vibration of the soft tissue. The ultrasound head with a coupling gel is placed directly on the affected breast’s skin and the provider moves the ultrasound head in a circular motion.
How does therapeutic ultrasound work?
Clogged milk ducts and other conditions on the mastitis spectrum are caused by inflammation in the breast. According to the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine, therapeutic ultrasound’s thermal energy reduces inflammation and relieves edema.
When should therapeutic ultrasound be used?
Ideally, therapeutic ultrasound should be performed as soon as symptoms of a clogged milk duct arise. If the lactating woman has developed a fever, chills, or notices that her breast is hot to the touch she should follow up with her primary care provider or birth provider instead.
How many sessions of therapeutic ultrasound are recommended?
According to research by Lavigne et al, women experiencing symptoms of a clogged milk duct that received an average of 3.3 therapeutic ultrasound treatments lasting between 8-10 minutes per affected side were able to improve milk flow and avoid the clogged ducts turning into mastitis.
What does a therapeutic ultrasound session look like at Women in Motion?
Our Women's Health care team is made up of Physical Therapist, Occupational Therapist and a Registered Nurse/Certified Lactation Counselor. You will receive a thorough assessment to ensure you are appropriate for therapeutic ultrasound and that there is no sign of infection. Treatment includes assessment, therapeutic ultrasound to the affected area, lymphatic massage and patient education on after care. Lactation support will also be provided as needed.
We offer DAILY THERAPEUTIC ULTRASOUND APPOINTMENTS to serve our community. Please call the clinic at the first sign of any symptoms because it is extremely important to try and get you in as soon as possible to keep symptoms from progressing. We look forward to helping you from your first latch to your last!