Ultrasound For Blocked Ducts
Yoga Mamas offers therapeutic ultrasound therapy for the treatment of clogged milk ducts. A plugged, clogged or blocked duct is the result of a localized obstruction caused by milk stasis in part of the breast. This can cause pain and impact breastfeeding along with milk supply. Blocked ducts may happen gradually, or come on suddenly requiring immediate attention.
This is where we can help and bring you immediate relief. Ultrasound therapy can successfully be used in the treatment of blocked ducts. This soothing treatment is led by a Yoga Mamas Registered Healthcare Practitioner.
This is where we can help and bring you immediate relief. Ultrasound therapy can successfully be used in the treatment of blocked ducts. This soothing treatment is led by a Yoga Mamas Registered Healthcare Practitioner.
Therapeutic ultrasound treatments are performed by Registered Healthcare Practitioners from different disciplines, and the cost of the appointment is billed under the practitioner's license number and discipline. To determine if your health insurance covers the specific practitioner's discipline, we recommend checking with your insurance provider before booking an appointment.
In order to schedule an appointment with a physiotherapist, it is necessary to first consult with a healthcare professional who is qualified to diagnose a blocked duct and suggest appropriate treatment. This referral can be given by a registered healthcare professional such as a physician, nurse, or other healthcare professional. Consult with an Ontario nurse via Telehealth here.
In order to schedule an appointment with a physiotherapist, it is necessary to first consult with a healthcare professional who is qualified to diagnose a blocked duct and suggest appropriate treatment. This referral can be given by a registered healthcare professional such as a physician, nurse, or other healthcare professional. Consult with an Ontario nurse via Telehealth here.
Blocked ducts can come on suddenly, and if not resolved by home care or professional care, may lead to mastitis. It's important to begin self care immediately, and seek ultrasound therapy if you are not able to resolve the blocked duct at home.
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How Ultrasound Therapy Works For Blocked Ducts
Therapeutic ultrasound for clogged ducts is a non-invasive treatment applied directly to the breast(s). Sound waves created by the machine help to reduce obstruction that surround the ducts which carry the milk, allowing for pressure relief, pain/swelling reduction, and promotes milk flow.
In combination with other treatment techniques (soft tissue/massage techniques, education on posture/positions), ultrasound treatment can help resolve the blocked duct, as well as prevent future blockage from recurring in the same duct. |
What Does Ultrasound For Clogged Ducts Feel Like?
The treatment is relaxing and pain free. You will be on a treatment table with draping over your chest so only the breast that is receiving treatment will be exposed. The gel may be a little cold when you practitioner applies it to your skin, but it will soon gently warm up once the ultrasound therapy begins.
The ultrasound treatment itself is silent but very effective. Using silent sound waves, therapeutic ultrasound therapy for blocked ducts penetrates past the surface of the breast and releases the ducts by breaking up blockages.
Relief is immediate as you will feel a softening of the lump(s) in your breast. You will experience better milk flow and nursing or pumping immediately after the treatment, or as soon as possible is recommended. You will continue to notice reduced redness, pain and pain and elimination of the lump(s).
Why Do Blocked Ducts Occur
Clogged, blocked or plugged milk ducts happen when a milk duct in your breast gets blocked or otherwise has poor drainage. You might experience a blocked duct if your your breasts are engorged, a breast isn’t fully emptied after a feed, or if you skip a feeding.
Blocked ducts can also occur for many reasons such as:
Symptoms of Blocked Ducts
The treatment is relaxing and pain free. You will be on a treatment table with draping over your chest so only the breast that is receiving treatment will be exposed. The gel may be a little cold when you practitioner applies it to your skin, but it will soon gently warm up once the ultrasound therapy begins.
The ultrasound treatment itself is silent but very effective. Using silent sound waves, therapeutic ultrasound therapy for blocked ducts penetrates past the surface of the breast and releases the ducts by breaking up blockages.
Relief is immediate as you will feel a softening of the lump(s) in your breast. You will experience better milk flow and nursing or pumping immediately after the treatment, or as soon as possible is recommended. You will continue to notice reduced redness, pain and pain and elimination of the lump(s).
Why Do Blocked Ducts Occur
Clogged, blocked or plugged milk ducts happen when a milk duct in your breast gets blocked or otherwise has poor drainage. You might experience a blocked duct if your your breasts are engorged, a breast isn’t fully emptied after a feed, or if you skip a feeding.
Blocked ducts can also occur for many reasons such as:
- Issues with latching. Yoga Mamas offers Lactation Consulting services if you require support with breastfeeding.
- Nursing positions or posture
- Stress or fatigue
- Too-tight sports bra
Symptoms of Blocked Ducts
- lump(s) in your breast tissue that feels hard
- You will will be able to feel the edges of the lump(s)
- the lump may move over time
- warmth, redness, pain or swelling near the lump
- engorgement around the lump
- discomfort during milk letdown
- milk plug/blister (bleb) at the opening of your nipple
Your Healing
In clinic ultrasound therapy for blocked duct appts are available 7 days a week.
At Home Remedies For Blocked Ducts
A blocked duct may not go away with home remedies, or may be intensely painful. Ultrasound therapy can be extremely helpful in these situations.
At Home Remedies For Blocked Ducts
- Regular, consistent breastfeeding or pumping is the quickest way to resolve a blocked duct.
- Massage the blocked duct both before and during a feeding. This can be done towards the armpits or towards the nipple.
- Apply a warm compress for 20 minutes at a time.
- Soak the breasts in a warm Epsom salt bath.
- Point baby’s chin or nose toward the clogged duct when breastfeeding.
- Use gravity to help drain the breast by breastfeeding on all fours.
A blocked duct may not go away with home remedies, or may be intensely painful. Ultrasound therapy can be extremely helpful in these situations.
Frequently Asked Questions
DO I NEED A REFERRAL?
In order to schedule an appointment with a Physiotherapist a referral letter must be emailed to [email protected] with the following information:
SHOULD I BRING MY BABY IN?
You are welcome to bring your baby. Right after treatment is an optimal time to feed or pump to further release and drain the breast.
DOES THE ULTRASOUND HURT?
The procedure may produce slight warmth on the breast, but not pain. Your practitioner will be in consistent discussion throughout the treatment to ensure patient comfort.
CAN THIS TREATMENT BE USED IF I HAVE BREAST IMPLANTS?
No, ultrasound therapy for blocked ducts is a contraindication for people with breast implants. A manual massage is a safe alternative.
WHAT OTHER ASPECTS OF THE TREATMENT ARE INCLUDED?
Your practitioner will go through a full assessment of the breast tissue and posture. In addition to the ultrasound, she may use taping techniques, massage techniques, and provide education to help manage and prevention techniques at home!
HOW MANY SESSIONS WILL I NEED?
This varies from individual to individual, if managed early it may take 1-2 sessions to resolve.
IS THIS COVERED THROUGH EXTENDED HEALTH BENEFITS?
Yes, as this assessment and treatment are completed by a Registered Healthcare Practitioner.
In order to schedule an appointment with a Physiotherapist a referral letter must be emailed to [email protected] with the following information:
- The patient had no contraindications to treatment
- There is no presence of infection or current antibiotic treatment
- Therapeutic Ultrasound is recommended
SHOULD I BRING MY BABY IN?
You are welcome to bring your baby. Right after treatment is an optimal time to feed or pump to further release and drain the breast.
DOES THE ULTRASOUND HURT?
The procedure may produce slight warmth on the breast, but not pain. Your practitioner will be in consistent discussion throughout the treatment to ensure patient comfort.
CAN THIS TREATMENT BE USED IF I HAVE BREAST IMPLANTS?
No, ultrasound therapy for blocked ducts is a contraindication for people with breast implants. A manual massage is a safe alternative.
WHAT OTHER ASPECTS OF THE TREATMENT ARE INCLUDED?
Your practitioner will go through a full assessment of the breast tissue and posture. In addition to the ultrasound, she may use taping techniques, massage techniques, and provide education to help manage and prevention techniques at home!
HOW MANY SESSIONS WILL I NEED?
This varies from individual to individual, if managed early it may take 1-2 sessions to resolve.
IS THIS COVERED THROUGH EXTENDED HEALTH BENEFITS?
Yes, as this assessment and treatment are completed by a Registered Healthcare Practitioner.
Your Practitioners
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Sara Tomenson, Certified Breastfeeding Specialist
Sara is a Certified Breastfeeding Specialist, and Qualifying IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant). Additionally she has received training in Advanced Lactation Consulting, Low Milk Supply Specialization, Oral Motor Skills, and Flange Fitting for Pumping. She has completed an abundance of clinical hours under the guidance of Paola Vallarino (IBCLC). She has been working closely with families and young children for 16 years and is passionate about supporting and helping families achieve their feeding goals. Whether you are seeking breastfeeding support, guidance on pumping, or assistance in overcoming lactation challenges, her expertise and experience allows her to deliver amazing care and support, ensuring that you and your baby receive the highest level of attention and care. |
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Chanelle Gardner
Registered Massage Therapist Chanelle is a Registered Massage Therapist, Fascial Stretch Therapist and Personal Trainer. As an ex-competitive athlete she has endured numerous injuries that she has worked through - which is what led to her to start offering bodywork when she saw first hand the it's affect on her wellness and how valuable your body is. Since starting in this line of work, she has felt such joy in being able to help clients get relief from pain. She has been able continue her education to be able to better serve clients and to be able to give them a well rounded, holistic approach to their individualized treatment. Her interest in prenatal and postpartum massage began during her schooling when treating her first pregnant client, being able to provide some relief and relaxation for a body to an expectant mother was incredibly fulfilling and moving. Chanelle focuses on long term sustainability in her treatments, recommending exercises, mobility work and stretches to help further your progress in getting your moving better and living pain free. |
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Sandra Pasquali
Registered Massage Therapist Sandra Pasquali graduated from Sutherland-Chan and has been working as a Registered Massage Therapist at Yoga Mamas for almost 4 years. Her previous experience includes working at Sunnybrook Hospital's high risk pregnancy unit, and Sutherland Chan's prenatal clinic. Sandra has continued her education with additional training in Lymphatic Drainage techniques, breast health, manual scar release therapy, kinesiology taping, and medical acupuncture. In addition to manual scar release therapy, Sandra has also received specialized training in MPS Scar Release using the Dolphin Neurostim, to help release all types of scars including c-section scars. Scar release appointments with Sandra include manual and MPS scar release for best results. Sandra is passionate about women's health and helping women feel empowered and connected to their bodies. Sandra leads her massages intuitively and works holistically to help identify the root cause of pain and discomfort. She adapts her treatments to each clients unique and changing needs Sandra ensures each treatment includes tailored aftercare in order to maintain and improve well being on an ongoing basis. Sandra is prepared to help you maintain health and wellness in all stages of life, pregnancy, and postpartum. |
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Namita Patel
Registered Physiotherapist - Pelvic Health, Women's Health, Orthopaedic Namita is a Pelvic Floor and Orthopaedic Physiotherapist with over a decade of experience. Namita specializes in treating prenatal, postpartum, and menopausal women facing issues such as urinary incontinence, pelvic floor weakness, pelvic pain, and post-surgery recovery. Namita's commitment to her field is evident through her continuous pursuit of knowledge and expertise. She has undertaken a diverse range of courses to enhance her skills, including pelvic health, visceral mobilization, acupuncture, manual therapy, rapid neurofascial reset, and the improvement of pelvic floor function through spinal manual therapy. This extensive training equips her with a versatile set of tools to address the unique needs of her patients effectively. Namita's approach to physiotherapy is rooted in a comprehensive and holistic philosophy. She combines hands-on treatment with the development of individualized exercise programs and provides personalized education to empower her clients in managing their conditions. Her compassionate and patient-centered care ensures that each person receives the attention and guidance needed to achieve optimal health outcomes. Beyond her professional practice, Namita is an enthusiastic advocate for women's health and well-being. She is dedicated to promoting awareness and understanding of pelvic health issues, contributing to the overall betterment of women's lives. Outside of her work, Namita finds joy in exploring new places, embracing outdoor adventures, and cherishing quality moments spent with her friends and family. |
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Bethany Spiers, Registered Kinesiologist
Bethany is a Registered Kinesiologist working with people throughout preconception, pregnancy and postpartum by using evidence-based research to treat and prevent injury and disease. She helps people with both pre-habilitation and rehabilitation to improve movement, pain, and quality of life. BACKGROUND: Bethany is dedicating her care in the maternal world focusing on pregnancy and postpartum. In addition to her perinatal experience, she has worked with a variety of populations including spinal cord trauma, geriatric, physical and mental exceptionalities and sports injury rehabilitation. Her dedication to Women's Health began during her undergraduate degree at University of Toronto, where she found herself repeatedly studying various ailments that affect women. This led her to conduct various primary research studies, work in various perinatal clinics, and further her education on topics such as pelvic floor rehabilitation, prenatal kinesio-taping, fascial stretch therapy, and more. Bethany is well versed with a variety of injuries from diastasis and the pelvic floor, to knees, hips, ankles, shoulders, and more. Aside from her clinical skills, her empathy and compassion create a welcoming and nurturing environment where her patients are truly cared for. |
PHILOSOPHY:
Kinesiologists are Regulated Health Professionals that focus on preventing and rehabilitating injury, illness, and dysfunction. They utilize active care such as exercise prescription and intervention, manual care such as joint and tissue mobilization, and passive care such as cupping, NMES/TENS, and taping. Bethany believes that optimal patient care is achieved when we address the body as an interconnected system, rather than just individual parts. Her goal is to educate and empower people by providing the adequate knowledge and skills they need to achieve their wellness goals. She is a thorough believer in pre-habilitation, preparing people's bodies for pregnancy, labour and delivery. This helps prevent injury or dysfunction. Physical rehabilitation that builds upon pelvic floor, movement, and mobility is a cornerstone of her practice. As a Regulated Health Professional, Bethany ensures she stays up-to-date with current literature and ensures that she communicates this with her patients in a comprehensive way.
CREDENTIALS + AFFILIATIONS
PERSONAL:
Bethany is a regulated health care professional under the College of Kinesiologists of Ontario and graduated with a Bachelor of Kinesiology from University of Toronto (2020). Bethany's goal is to provide outstanding care that helps people transition from preconception, maternity, and postpartum by addressing physical ailments and dysfunctions. During her spare time, Bethany is likely reading up on the latest literature, seeking new pelvic floor courses, or spending time outside exercising. As a Regulated Health Professional, Bethany feels it is essential that she provides individualized treatment plants that are patient-centred and research informed. "Your body is your only permanent home - let's take care of it. Together." "Our bodies go through many changes throughout our lives. With adequate attention, we can welcome these changes with grace, and keep you moving with ease. Let's do this, together.
Kinesiologists are Regulated Health Professionals that focus on preventing and rehabilitating injury, illness, and dysfunction. They utilize active care such as exercise prescription and intervention, manual care such as joint and tissue mobilization, and passive care such as cupping, NMES/TENS, and taping. Bethany believes that optimal patient care is achieved when we address the body as an interconnected system, rather than just individual parts. Her goal is to educate and empower people by providing the adequate knowledge and skills they need to achieve their wellness goals. She is a thorough believer in pre-habilitation, preparing people's bodies for pregnancy, labour and delivery. This helps prevent injury or dysfunction. Physical rehabilitation that builds upon pelvic floor, movement, and mobility is a cornerstone of her practice. As a Regulated Health Professional, Bethany ensures she stays up-to-date with current literature and ensures that she communicates this with her patients in a comprehensive way.
CREDENTIALS + AFFILIATIONS
- Registered Kinesiologist (R. Kin)
- College of Kinesiologists of Ontario (member)
- Ontario Kinesiology Association (member)
- Canadian Kinesiology Alliance (member)
- Bachelor of Kinesiology - University of Toronto
- Non-Internal Introductory Pelvic Floor Course - Pelvic Health Solutions - Certification
- Fascial Stretch Therapy - Certification
- THRIVE Exercise and Cancer - Certification
PERSONAL:
Bethany is a regulated health care professional under the College of Kinesiologists of Ontario and graduated with a Bachelor of Kinesiology from University of Toronto (2020). Bethany's goal is to provide outstanding care that helps people transition from preconception, maternity, and postpartum by addressing physical ailments and dysfunctions. During her spare time, Bethany is likely reading up on the latest literature, seeking new pelvic floor courses, or spending time outside exercising. As a Regulated Health Professional, Bethany feels it is essential that she provides individualized treatment plants that are patient-centred and research informed. "Your body is your only permanent home - let's take care of it. Together." "Our bodies go through many changes throughout our lives. With adequate attention, we can welcome these changes with grace, and keep you moving with ease. Let's do this, together.
