Mastitis Treatment in Richmond

Mastitis can come on quickly and leave you feeling genuinely unwell while trying to care for a newborn. Physiotherapy offers effective, drug-free relief that can clear blockages and ease pain, often quickly.

Our women’s health specialist can help, and will guide you on when medical input is also needed.

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What Is Mastitis?

Mastitis is inflammation of the breast which, if not treated promptly, can progress to infection. Warning signs include breast pain, heat and redness, along with feeling nauseated or unwell, headaches, chills, shivers, aches and fever.
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How Physiotherapy Treats It

Treatment centres on reducing inflammation and restoring healthy milk flow.

  • Therapeutic ultrasound: high-frequency sound waves that boost circulation, reduce inflammation and break down blockages.
  • Lymphatic draining massage: combined with ultrasound to improve flow and relieve pain, often bringing quick relief.
  • Kinesiology taping: to support the breast and desensitise the tissues for added comfort.
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When to See a Physiotherapist and When to See a Doctor

See a physiotherapist if you have a blocked milk duct you cannot clear yourself, if you want to reduce the need for antibiotics, and to learn strategies to prevent it happening again.

See a doctor straight away if you develop a fever, feel unwell, or the condition does not improve within 12 to 24 hours. Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics, which are safe to take while breastfeeding.

Where to Find Us

Breastfeeding mothers across Richmond and nearby come to us for fast, gentle mastitis relief. We are based at Lawton Gate House, 7 Hill Street, Richmond, TW9 1SX, a short walk from Richmond Station and easily reached from Twickenham, Kew, Sheen, Teddington, Kingston and Barnes.

Meet Our Women's Health Physiotherapist

Breanna Walker is a Women’s Health Specialist and Chartered Physiotherapist who supports women through the postnatal period, including lactation concerns.

Her training across the Australian Physiotherapy Association Women’s Pelvic Health Level 1 to 3 and Women’s Health Through The Life Stages courses spans the full range of pre and postnatal conditions women encounter.

Breanna provides hands-on treatment to relieve blocked ducts and the discomfort of mastitis, and will always advise when medical review is needed. She is HCPC registered under PH154328.

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Frequently Asked Questions

In most cases continuing to feed or express is encouraged, as it helps clear the blockage. We guide you on managing this comfortably alongside treatment.
Not always. Physiotherapy can clear many blocked ducts and reduce the need for antibiotics, but if a fever develops or symptoms persist beyond 12 to 24 hours you should see a doctor promptly.
Combining therapeutic ultrasound with lymphatic massage often brings quick relief, though severity varies from person to person.