HAPPY WORLD BREASTFEEDING WEEK!
As a mom of two breastfed babies, this is a topic that is near and dear to my heart. For me, breastfeeding has been the most challenging yet most fulfilling undertaking. It’s absolutely exhausting but somehow leaves my soul feeling rested. It can be scary, frustrating, emotional, but all completely worth it for that raw connection with my baby that I know is only ours.
For some breastfeeding comes naturally, for others there are many challenges along the way, and for others it may not be a possibility at all. At the end of the day, fed is always best. But if you are wanting to breastfeed and need help, you have many resources at your disposal – your Doctor or midwife, lactation consultants, breastfeeding support groups, post-partum doulas, and yes, even physical therapists!
What can my Doctor of Physical Therapy do to help me on my breastfeeding journey?
We can…
🤱🏻 Optimize positioning of mom and baby for a more comfortable time and better latch
🤱🏼 Relieve back, neck, shoulder, elbow, wrist, and other common breastfeeding aches and pains
🤱🏽 Teach manual techniques to relieve sore muscles and assist with the let down and flow of milk
🤱🏾 Provide relaxation techniques to promote a stress-free feeding environment for mom and baby and limit muscle tension
🤱🏿 Improve postural awareness to combat the rounded back and forward head posture
🤱 Assist in identifying infection or more serious pathology that requires further medical treatment or testing
Whether you breastfed for a day, a week, a year, or even more, be proud of your body and your journey! And if you are currently breastfeeding, remember it’s always okay to ask for help and Life Changes Physical Therapy is here for you!