Mastitis & Blocked Milk Duct

Blocked duct, or clogged duct, is common in breastfeeding moms, especially in the first three months of breastfeeding. It usually presents with a painful lump, with or without redness. It is frequently accompanied by reduced milk supply. 

The biggest contributing factor for blocked duct is oversupply. It may also be caused by delay in pumping or latching, sleeping on the tummy, wearing tight clothing, or consumption of milk boosters. 

Mastitis occur when patients experience systemic symptoms on top of breast discomfort. These symptoms include fever, chills, and body ache. Mastitis can be caused by a severe blocked duct, or bacterial infection. 

Physio Edge was once known for pain-free ultrasound treatment for blocked duct and mastitis. Since the end of 2025, we have replaced ultrasound treatment with Deep Oscillation Treatment combined with manual lymphatic drainage massage. The Deep Oscillation Treatment is a cutting-edge technology that generates vibration with electrostatics. Combined with manual lymphatic drainage massage, it reduces swelling in a pain-free way. 

Pumping or latching should follow immediately after the Deep Oscillation Treatment. Patients usually observe a better milk flow. Pain and lumpiness in the breast will start to reduce immediately, but it may take another 1-2 days to completely resolve. Most patients only require one session of treatment, but around 10% may need a follow-up session in the following 2-3 days.

During the session, our therapist will also help you identify cause of your blocked duct and mastitis, and advise on how to minimize recurrence. 

When milk first kick in after delivery, some mummies experience engorgement, where both breasts become rock-hard and painful. This phenomenon may also occur at the accessory breasts, commonly in the armpits. It could be very difficult to express breast milk.

Deep Oscillation Treatment and manual lymphatic drainage is also very helpful for engorgement. It is important to avoid forceful massage which can worsen the condition. 

Cracked nipples are painful, and increase the risk of mastitis. We carry Nursicare Breast Pad for treatment of cracked/ sore/ painful nipples. Nursicare breast pad is a drug-free product that contains wound-dressing material, wound cleanser, soothing moisturizer, and superabsorbent. Each pad ca nbe used for 2-3 days (given minimal leakage of breast milk). It promotes healing of the nipple, and provides rapid pain relief. 

To purchase Nursicare Breast Pad, visit our shop on Shopee, or message our friendly staff.

- We visit you at your home for your maximum convenience!

- We use a PAINLESS treatment approach!

- We help you find the root-cause of the problem and prevent recurrence

- Most patients only need one session. No expensive packages!

- Competitive charges - in fact, comparable to a visit to a physio clinic!

We cannot treat everyone - it is important that we let you know what we cannot treat:

1. bacterial infection: Some mastitis are caused by bacterial infection, and has to be treated with antibiotics. Once antibiotics has kicked in, our treatment can help to fasten up the recovery process. Common symptoms of bacterial infection are high/ persistent fever, severe pain and redness on the breast.

2. breast cysts: Cysts are common in the breast. They usually present as non-painful lumps with well-defined border. It can be confirmed on a diagnostic ultrasound scan. A cyst may cause blocked duct in the immediate surrounding area. Our treatment can help to resolve the blockage, but will not be able to resolve the cyst itself. A cyst has to be broken down by the body and absorbed back into the system gradually over time. 

3. abscess: A breast abscess could be present in patients with severe mastitis. If an abscess is suspected, one should see a breast surgeon for diagnosis and management. You may benefit from Deep Oscillation Treatment and lymphatic drainage massage once the acute symptoms of the abscess is under control. 

Whatsapp our friendly staff to fix an appointment or ask any questions. We will try our best to arrange a slot for you as soon as possible. Our therapist will visit you at your home, anywhere in Singapore. 

During the session, the therapist will take a detailed history and assess your condition. During the Deep Oscillation Treatment, you will be required to hold a small piece of metal conductor that connects you to the machine. The therapist will also be connected to the machine using an adhesive electrode. The therapist will conduct a manual lymphatic drainage massage for the breast. Vibration will occur at the contact point between the therapist and the patient. Vibration from the Deep Oscillation Treatment enhances the effect of the massage. The massage will last 10-15 minutes depending on the size of the affected area. You will then need to pump or latch the baby immediately. If you are pumping, our therapist will help to troubleshoot your pumping routine to improve efficiency of pumping. The Deep Oscillation Treatment can be repeated once more after pumping/ latching if necessary.

Breastfeeding could be complicated. If you suffer from recurrent blocked duct or mastitis, we encourage you to consult a lactation consultant to work on other factors that is contributing to the recurrence of your condition, such as shallow latching and oversupply. 

We recommend Eliza from Tender Loving Milk for her professional service.