Breast massage is a gentle and therapeutic practice that is often overlooked, but can offer a variety of health benefits. Whether you're seeking relief from cyclical discomfort, looking to treat a blocked milk duct, or are hoping to decrease scar tissue, breast massage can be a wonderful addition to your massage. In this blog post, we'll explore the many benefits of breast massage and why it might be worth incorporating into your next treatment.
Let's start by discussing the rules around breast massage. As a massage therapists in Ontario, there are Standards of Practice that must be followed. One of these standards states that breast massage may only be performed upon the client's request. RMTs are not able to suggest it be included in a treatment. Does this mean it should treat it like a secret menu item that only those in the know are able to access? Absolutely not! Educating clients about their options is an important part of the job. Your RMT can explain the benefits of breast massage, but it's up to you to request it if you are comfortable. This avoids therapists accidentally making clients uncomfortable by suggesting this treatment.
Who should receive a breast massage?
Even after a client makes the request, there needs to be a reason to perform this type of massage. Here are some examples of clinically relevant indications for breast massage:
Scar Tissue
Scar tissue may form in or around the breasts for a variety of reasons. Surgeries such as breast augmentation or reduction, top surgery, mastectomies, and lumpectomies can lead to scarring. Massage therapy can help reduce how much these scars pull on surrounding tissue and can help improve the look of the scar by lightening the color.
Tenderness
Often associated with the menstrual cycle, hormonal changes can cause breast pain or tenderness. Massage can help to alleviate this discomfort.
Access underlying tissue
The pectoralis major muscle is directly underneath breast tissue. In order to treat the entire muscle, your massage therapist would need to work through the breast tissue. However, the origin and insertion of pectoralis major can be worked without touching breast tissue if you are more comfortable with that. Great results can be achieved without accessing the muscle through breast tissue.
Blocked milk ducts
When breastfeeding, milk ducts may become blocked. If not treated, a blocked milk duct can lead to mastitis. Massage can help to clear a blocked duct before it becomes infected.
What does a clinical breast massage involve?
If you believe you could benefit from a clinical breast massage, talking to your RMT about it is the first step. This will give your massage therapist the opportunity to discuss the benefits, risks, expected outcomes, and treatment plan with you so you can make an informed decision about your care. It also gives your therapist the opportunity to refer you to another practitioner if they do not feel confident in performing this treatment. If you decide to proceed with the treatment, it is important that you understand you are in charge. You can change your mind at any point throughout the treatment and the massage can be stopped altogether, or the breast massage can be stopped and treatment can continue in other areas. Treatment can also be paused and modified. You should be comfortable with everything that is happening, and if you’re not, your massage therapist will work with you to make changes so you are comfortable.
Breast massage is typically performed with one breast fully exposed at a time. This includes the nipple being exposed. If you aren’t comfortable having the entire breast exposed, there are options to partially undrape, keeping the nipple covered. This can make it a bit more difficult to perform the treatment, but is still a great option. The nipple and areola should NEVER be touched by your massage therapist.
Once you’ve discussed the benefits, risks, expected outcome, and treatment plan you will be asked to sign a written consent form. This system is in place to protect both the client and the therapist.
Self Examination
It is important to be aware of any changes to your breast tissue. Click here to find out more about how to perform breast self-exams and why they are important. Any changes should be discussed with a primary care provider as soon as possible.
Conclusion
Breast massage offers numerous benefits, from improving circulation and lymphatic drainage to reducing discomfort. By incorporating this simple yet effective practice into your next massage treatment, you can experience a range of health benefits
Remember, if you experience any unusual pain, discomfort, or changes in your breasts, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider to rule out any underlying conditions.
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this blog post is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. If you are experiencing any changes in your breast health, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan. Always seek the advice of your doctor or another qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.