What is Mastitis?
Acute mastitis is a painful inflammatory condition of the breast tissue, most commonly occurring in breastfeeding women, where it is known as lactational mastitis. This condition often arises from milk stasis – when milk is not adequately removed from the breast – and bacterial infection. Bacteria, typically from the infant’s mouth or surrounding skin, can enter the breast tissue through small cracks or breaks in the nipple, often caused by poor latch or frequent feeding.
The symptoms of mastitis usually come on quickly and may affect just one breast. Individuals may notice localised pain, swelling, redness, and increased warmth in the affected area. The breast may feel hard, engorged, and tender to touch. In many cases, systemic symptoms also occur, such as fever, chills, body aches, and a general sense of fatigue – essentially, you may feel like you have the flu.
If mastitis is not addressed early, it can lead to more serious complications, including the development of a breast abscess – a localised, painful collection of pus within the breast tissue. A breast abscess often requires medical intervention, such as ultrasound-guided drainage or surgical procedures, along with a course of antibiotics to resolve the infection. Prompt recognition and treatment of mastitis are essential to reduce discomfort, support continued breastfeeding, and prevent progression to this more severe stage. In fact, studies show that approximately 3% to 11% of women with acute mastitis go on to develop a breast abscess, highlighting the importance of early and proactive management.
How Can Physiotherapy and Therapeutic Ultrasound Treatment Help with Mastitis?
Therapeutic ultrasound is a safe, non-invasive treatment used in physiotherapy to manage a wide range of soft tissue conditions – mastitis included. It works by delivering high-frequency sound waves deep into the tissues, promoting circulation and reducing inflammation.
When applied to the breast, ultrasound can:
- Break down blockages in the milk ducts
- Reduce swelling and fluid build-up
- Alleviate pain and tenderness
- Support the body’s natural healing process
- Enhance milk flow and encourage effective drainage
By creating gentle vibrations and localised warmth, therapeutic ultrasound increases blood flow, helping to clear stagnant milk and reduce the risk of further blockages. Studies support the use of ultrasound therapy for mastitis, showing significant improvements in pain relief, breast function, and overall recovery—especially when treatments are performed on consecutive days. Given that recurrence is relatively common, affecting 6.5% to 8.5% of women who have previously experienced mastitis, early and effective intervention plays a crucial role in not only managing current symptoms but also in preventing future episodes.
If you’re experiencing signs of mastitis, don’t wait. Early intervention can make all the difference and we are here at Performance Edge Physiotherapy to help you feel better, faster.