What it is
Breastfeeding is natural, but it is not always easy. A good latch depends on many things at once: the mother’s position, the baby’s comfort, how wide the baby opens their mouth, turns their head, moves their tongue and coordinates sucking, swallowing and breathing.
Our breastfeeding support is a physiotherapy and osteopathic intervention. We look at the mother’s body and the baby’s body and search for the tensions that make feeding difficult or painful.
We do not replace the work of midwives, lactation consultants, breastfeeding counsellors or paediatricians. We are one part of the team: when feeding technique has already been worked on and difficulties persist, there is often something in the body worth looking at.
What happens in a session
We start by listening: how the birth went, how feeds are going, your baby’s weight, nappies, nipple pain, what has been tried and who is already supporting you.
Then we watch a feed. We look at the position of mother and baby, the alignment of head and body, how wide the mouth opens, the latch and the rhythm of sucking.
For the baby, we assess the mobility of the neck (can they turn easily to both sides?), the jaw, the tongue and the floor of the mouth, overall muscle tone and posture. Treatment uses very gentle manual techniques and, where useful, small oral exercises that parents can repeat at home.
For the mother, we assess posture during feeds, tension in the shoulders, neck and back, and any postnatal scars or pain that may be getting in the way. We adjust cushions, support and positions so that feeding is comfortable for both of you.
When it can help
Many mothers seek this support when their baby struggles to stay latched, clicks, only accepts one side, falls asleep straight away or feeds for a very long time, or when nipple pain persists. It can also help when the mother has musculoskeletal pain while feeding.
When a tongue-tie (ankyloglossia) is suspected, the diagnosis and the decision about frenotomy belong to a doctor. Our role is to assess and work on the baby’s mobility and comfort, before and after the procedure, in coordination with the team.
Evidence for manual therapy in breastfeeding difficulties is still limited. That is why observing the feed and making practical adjustments is always at the heart of the work.
What to expect and how many sessions
Some families notice a difference quickly; others need support over a few weeks. We adjust the plan according to weight gain, the mother’s comfort and how feeds evolve, and we communicate with the rest of the team whenever helpful.
Frequently asked questions
Do you also help with bottle feeding?
Yes. Many of the same latch difficulties appear with bottles, and the work is similar.
Should I bring anything?
Your baby’s health record, weight records and the feeding pillow you use at home, if you have one.
What if I need help with milk supply?
Questions about supply, supplementation or medication are handled by your midwife, lactation consultant and doctor. We will help you find the right person.
When to see a doctor
See your paediatrician if your baby refuses feeds, has few wet nappies, is losing weight or not regaining birth weight, has a fever, is very sleepy or looks yellow. See your own doctor if you have a red, hot, painful breast with fever or chills.