In regard to the thread about the use of heat (I have copied and pasted some comments below)....how can we as professionals practice effectively when the resources we are utilizing recommend practices that are not researched??This includes resources that the IBLCE considers recommended reading for exam candidates. 

Use of both heat and cold are commonly referenced in numerous lactation texts and resources, including resources listed as suggested reading to sit the IBLCE exam. I have what I would consider a relatively large, and current library of lactation texts and resources, the references to the use of heat and cold are common, varying somewhat but certainly easily located and?abundant within some resources.?

I know better then to simply blindly accept every statement as?fact, and I can perform my own review of the literature, but this theme is so prevalent, and repeated often (not just in?one or two resources, but numerous, current texts).?
And I don't think it is reasonable for practitioners to personally research?each conclusion and recommendation made in resources that are generally considered reliable, although I have certainly engaged in this when faced with circumstances when recommendations appear conflicting or practices seemingly evolve, I will attempt to collectively review my professional resources and examine the topic closely.

I haven't concluded how I feel about the use of heat and cold now, I haven't ruled out changing my existing recommendations but it is disappointing to have to look at practices that are so abundantly addressed in current, recently published literature with skepticism. 


Michelle

"Coach Smith here.

There is NO RESEARCH - repeat, NO RESEARCH supporting the use of heat on
engorged breasts, inflamed breasts, sore breasts, or any other condition of
the lactating breast!? NO RESEARCH. Yes, many books and articles and people
suggest using heat, without ANY research to back up that advice!"


"To add to Linda's post, there is no evidence showing that cold is good for? 
swollen breasts either. 
?
Here is a topic "Heat or cold for treatment of mastitis" that desperately? 
needs some research, if anyone needs a thesis topic!
?
warmly,
?
Nikki Lee RN,? MS, IBCLC, CCE, CIMI
craniosacral therapy practitioner
_www.myspace.com/adonicalee? "



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