Mastitis is an inflammation of breast tissue that commonly occurs during breastfeeding. While antibiotics are often recommended, many women don’t realize that therapeutic ultrasound offers a safe and effective way without antibiotics to relieve symptoms and heal mastitis.
At our Pittsburgh, PA clinic, we specialize in Pregnancy & Postpartum Care and Women’s Health, providing personalized, evidence-based treatments to help mothers recover from mastitis and clogged ducts.
What Is Mastitis?
Mastitis most often affects breastfeeding women when milk ducts become clogged or bacteria enter the breast tissue. The result is inflammation, pain, and sometimes infection.
Common symptoms include:
- Localized breast pain or tenderness
- Swelling, warmth, and redness
- Hard or lumpy areas in the breast
- Flu-like symptoms such as body aches or fever
If untreated, mastitis can lead to abscess formation, so treating the issue early is important.
What are clogged ducts?
Clogged ducts are exactly what they sound like! :) They occur when there is a block or plug in the milk duct, preventing milk from flowing to the nipple. A clogged duct left untreated can lead to mastitis.
Symptoms of a clogged duct include:
- Redness and tenderness
- A painful lump in the breast
- Pain during letdown
- Discomfort that subsides are nursing or pumping (1)
How Ultrasound Helps with Mastitis
Ultrasound is now included in The American Academy of Breastfeeding’s protocol for Mastitis and Clogged Ducts (2). And we’re thankful for that because we’ve known how helpful it is for years and years!
Therapeutic ultrasound is a non-invasive treatment that uses sound waves to promote tissue healing and reduce inflammation. When used for mastitis, it helps by:
- Reducing swelling and inflammation in breast tissue
- Breaking up clogged milk ducts to restore milk flow
- Softening hardened tissue and easing pain
- Improving circulation for faster healing
Ultrasound therapy is also helpful for clogged ducts to prevent mastitis and especially when symptoms persist despite antibiotics.
What to Expect During an Ultrasound Session
A session begins with a thorough assessment to ensure there are no contraindications for ultrasound. We typically assess the spine (which affects lymph and milk flow) and the breast (obviously! :) )
Then we begin treatment:
Ultrasound: Our women’s health physical therapist applies a warm gel to the affected area and moves a small ultrasound wand gently over the breast. The process takes about 5–10 minutes and feels soothing and comfortable
We also typically include: hands on treatment to move lymph fluid and exercises to mobilize the thoracic spine (mid back)
We encourage immediate breastfeeding (bring your baby!) or pumping to clear out the clog.
Many patients notice improvement within one to three sessions, especially when moms:
- Do gentle breast massage and lymphatic drainage at home
- Perform optimal breastfeeding positioning
- Stay well-hydrated and as rested as they can
Comprehensive Women’s Health Support
Resilient Women’s Health takes a holistic approach to Pregnancy & Postpartum Care. In addition to ultrasound therapy, our team of pelvic floor and women’s health physical therapists addresses underlying issues such as posture, muscle tension, and stress that can contribute to clogged ducts or breast pain.
We collaborate with lactation consultants, OB-GYNs, and midwives to ensure you receive seamless, whole-woman care.
Ultrasound for Mastitis in Pittsburgh, PA
If you’re in the Pittsburgh area and searching for Women’s Health Near Me or expert support for Pregnancy & Postpartum Care, our team is here to help.
Ultrasound therapy offers a gentle and effective way to reduce mastitis and clogged duct symptoms, restore comfort, and support continued breastfeeding.
If you’re looking for ultrasound treatment for mastitis in Pittsburgh, PA, schedule with one of our pelvic health therapists today.
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