Mastitis Treatment & Breastfeeding Support in Bronte
What is Mastitis?
Mastitis happens when milk flow becomes blocked or bacteria enter the breast, causing inflammation. It’s common during breastfeeding and can develop suddenly, leaving you sore, tired and unwell.
Symptoms of Mastitis
You may notice:
Localised breast pain, redness or warmth
A hard lump in the breast
Fever, chills or feeling run down
Reduced milk supply in one area
Flu-like aches and tiredness
Common causes include:
Blocked milk ducts from infrequent or incomplete emptying
Tight bras or pressure on the breast
Changes in feeding patterns or latch issues
Cracked nipples allowing bacteria to enter
(Source: The Royal Women’s Hospital)
What You Can Do at Home
Most mild cases improve quickly with early self-care:
Keep breastfeeding or expressing to help clear the blockage
Change feeding positions to drain all areas of the breast
Use a warm compress before feeding and a cool pack after to ease pain
Gently massage from the sore area towards the nipple while feeding or expressing
Stay hydrated and rest when possible
Take paracetamol if safe for you and recommended by your GP
If your symptoms don’t improve within 24-48 hours or if you develop a fever, see your GP. You may need antibiotics.
How Physiotherapy Helps Mastitis
Physiotherapy can provide fast, effective relief from blocked ducts and mastitis.
At Limitless Physio Bronte, our mastitis treatment includes:
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A targeted ultrasound frequency helps clear blocked ducts and reduce inflammation. Treatment is usually done over three consecutive days, ideally straight after feeding. Many women notice improvement after just one session.
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Light strokes directed towards the armpit help move fluid and clear the blockage through the lymph nodes.
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Special tape lifts the skin slightly to create more space, improving milk and lymphatic flow. This reduces swelling, pressure and discomfort.
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We’ll teach you safe self-massage, positioning for effective drainage, and how to use your breast pump correctly.
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We’ll also discuss ways to avoid future blockages or infections.
Ultrasound and gentle lymphatic drainage are safe during breastfeeding and are most effective before mastitis becomes a full infection. If we suspect infection, we’ll refer you to your GP promptly for antibiotics.
What to Expect at Your Appointment
During your session, your Women’s Health physio will:
Take a brief history of your symptoms and feeding pattern
Assess the affected breast for tenderness, lumps or infection signs
Teach you practical feeding and expressing techniques
Provide gentle manual therapy and ultrasound treatment
Develop a clear plan, including when to follow up with your GP or lactation consultant
When to See Your GP or Midwife
Seek urgent medical care if you have:
A high fever or flu-like symptoms
Rapidly spreading redness or severe pain
Pus from the nipple or a large, painful lump
Concerns about your or your baby’s health
(Source: South Eastern Sydney Local Health District)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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Not always. Many cases improve with early physiotherapy, rest and frequent feeding. If symptoms persist beyond 24–48 hours, or if you have a fever, see your GP.
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Yes, it’s usually recommended and helps clear the blockage. If unsure, get personalised advice from your GP or lactation consultant.
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Yes, when performed by an experienced physio, gentle lymphatic techniques are safe and effective. Avoid deep or aggressive massage.
Need Mastitis Relief in Bronte?
If you think you have mastitis or a blocked milk duct, don’t wait. Book an urgent appointment with Limitless Physio Bronte for safe and effective mastitis treatment.
Call us on (02) 8970 9166 or book online today.
If you have a high fever or severe symptoms, contact your GP or local emergency department first.
Author:
Shannon Nutt
Physiotherapist, Limitless Physio Bronte
