Mastitis & Postnatal Concerns

Throughout the journey of pregnancy, birth and postnatal recovery, there are different reasons that our female body may need support from a Women's Health Physiotherapist. Due to hormones at play, different loads on our body (physically and emotionally) or due to birth-related injuries.

See below for some of the common areas which we help expecting mumma's and new mumma's with to ensure that all mumma's are supported and feel the best version of themself.

Mastitis

Mastitis is an acute inflammation or infection of breast tissue associated with a blockage in the milk ducts. Early treatment is essential. We provide therapeutic ultrasound and massage over the surrounding area of the breast tissue, along with education for at-home strategies and referral to a local GP.

The most common symptoms of mastitis are:

Breast tenderness
Pain on feeding
Swelling
Firm mass / lumpy
Redness and shiny skin
Flu-like symptoms

Wrist Pain

Wrist pain is very common during pregnancy and postpartum. Sometimes this can be due to hormonal and fluid changes during pregnancy, along with carrying or breastfeeding a baby postnatally.

Common conditions we help manage involve carpal tunnel syndrome (when there can be numbness/tingling in the hand), or De Quervain's when the tendons around the thumb and wrist have been overused and become inflamed.

Abdominal Separation

Diastasis Recti is when the outer layer of the abdominal muscles separates and stretching occurs through the center of the linear alba. This is most commonly seen during and after pregnancy, however, it can occur in other populations. Correct assessment, effective exercise and sometimes wearing compressive garments recommended by your health professional, can often help ladies to feel stronger and improve the strength of their abdominals.

Birth Injuries & Trauma

There can be physical and emotional injuries sustained during childbirth. It is important to know that your Women's Physio along with a team of professionals are here to support you along your journey. Physical injuries can include perineum and pelvic floor tears, obstetric anal sphincter injuries, Pubic Diastasis and fractures. A 4-6 week postnatal Physio assessment is always recommended to identify concerns and ensure effective recovery.