Breastfeeding offers many benefits for infants and mothers, yet many Australian families encounter challenges in the early months.

While around 96% of mothers initiate breastfeeding, only 37.5% of infants are exclusively breastfed to six months of age, as recommended by the World Health Organization.

By this age, only about 70% of babies are still receiving some breast milk.

At Koru Natural Therapies, we recognise that feeding challenges are common and that support from various health professionals can make a meaningful difference.

Osteopaths may be part of a multidisciplinary team supporting breastfeeding families.

We are currently involved in a clinical trial investigating osteopathic treatment for babies under six months of age who are experiencing breastfeeding difficulties.

Breastfeeding Challenges in Australia

Research shows that breastfeeding complications are highly prevalent.

A 2023 national study of more than 5,000 women found that over 95% of breastfeeding mothers reported experiencing at least one difficulty.

These may include:

• Painful latching or nipple pain
• Concerns about low milk supply
• Breast engorgement or mastitis
• Emotional discomfort during breastfeeding, including Breastfeeding Aversion Response (BAR)
• Fatigue, musculoskeletal discomfort, or difficulties maintaining feeding positions

• Difficulty latching or maintaining suction
• Head turning preference or limited neck movement
• Changes in muscle tone or tension from birth
• Signs of discomfort during or after feeding

What Factors Support Breastfeeding Success?

Several protective factors have been identified in Australian and international research that are associated with longer breastfeeding duration.

These include:

• A strong intention to breastfeed and high maternal self-confidence
• Access to evidence-based support from lactation consultants and other trained professionals
• Positive early feeding experiences, including skin-to-skin contact post-birth
• Supportive social, workplace, and healthcare environments
• Education and reassurance in the early postpartum period

While there is no single solution for breastfeeding success, a combination of physical, emotional, and practical support often leads to more positive outcomes.

The Role of Osteopathy

Osteopaths are trained to assess the structure and function of the body and may assist mothers and babies experiencing musculoskeletal discomfort or physical strain related to breastfeeding.

Treatment is always individualised and based on the needs and presentation of each patient.

For Infants

Some parents seek osteopathic care to explore whether physical factors may be influencing feeding.

Osteopaths use a hands-on approach to assess the mobility and function of the musculoskeletal system and other related physiological processes such as breathing and swallowing coordination, visceral disturbances, such as digestive discomfort and winding issues and nervous system irritation just to name a few.

In infants, this may include evaluating areas such as:

• Jaw and oral structures
• Head and neck mobility
• Muscle tone and posture
• General body movement and comfort

Osteopaths may collaborate with other healthcare providers, including lactation consultants, GPs, and maternal-child health nurses, as part of an integrative approach.

For Mothers

Breastfeeding often places strain on the body, particularly in the shoulders, neck, and upper back.

Some women also seek osteopathic support for postural discomfort, recovery from pregnancy and birth, or pelvic and spinal function in the postnatal period.

Osteopathic treatment may involve:

• Assessment and treatment of musculoskeletal strains or imbalances
• Advice on postural awareness or ergonomic support while feeding
• Referrals to other professionals when appropriate

It is important to note that osteopaths do not treat lactation itself but may assist with musculoskeletal factors that are contributing to physical strain or positioning difficulties, such as the neck, jaw and tongue to assist.

About The Clinical Trial

At Koru Natural Therapies, we are participating in a clinical trial examining the osteopathic treatment of infants under six months of age with breastfeeding-related concerns.

The trial aims to investigate:

• Whether a combination of osteopathy and lactation consultant support is more effective than lactation support on its own
• How osteopathic assessment and treatment may influence feeding behaviours or comfort
• Parent-reported outcomes related to feeding, comfort, and overall experience

This research has been ethically approved and is conducted in accordance with relevant research guidelines.

Participation is voluntary and includes a full osteopathic assessment and follow-up treatments by registered practitioners.

Families interested in participating are encouraged to contact our clinic for more information, including eligibility criteria and informed consent procedures.

Multidisciplinary Support Makes a Difference

Breastfeeding outcomes improve when families are supported by a team of knowledgeable professionals.

Osteopaths can work alongside lactation consultants, midwives, GPs, and maternal-child health nurses to provide whole-person care that addresses physical and environmental aspects of feeding.

At Koru Natural Therapies, we provide osteopathic care for mothers and infants within a supportive clinical environment. We respect individual feeding choices and aim to assist families in achieving their feeding goals through evidence-informed assessment and care.

If you are interested in participating in the clinical trial, please contact Dr. Kirsty Greenwood (Osteopath) on 0410 824 454 or email k.greenwood54@student.scu.edu.au.

Breastfeeding Osteopathic Manual Therapy Study

If you would like to book a regular consultation separate to the clinical trial, please contact the clinic directly.