Rebecca,
When I see mothers with unexplained breast pain, which defies the usual
observations and investigations, there is another question I ask: Has the
mother had a spinal injury, e.g. from a car accident or any cause? Often the
answer is "yes". The problem may be related to the enervation of the breast,
originating from the area of the spinal injury. I send the mother back to
whomever was treating her for pain after the injury, such as her
physiotherapist (physical therapist) or medical practitioner.
I've only seen small numbers, too infrequent for a study. However, with this
other input, plus my work with the mother on breastfeeding, we get a better
outcome. Sometimes the old spinal injury isn't exactly at the level from
which the nerves to the breast come, but - inexplicably - there appears to
be an effect.
While the mothers I have seen presented with overwhelming pain, I believe
numbness could be another possible effect of nerve involvement from an old
injury to the spine. At least it is worth investigation.
Virginia

------------------------------
Rebecca Neely wrote:

So thankful to have a 'panel of experts' at the click of a mouse! 

A mom called me yesterday, 3 1/2 months post-partum (permission to post here
obtained!).  She experienced discomfort in left axilla during pregnancy
(id'd by cnm as 'extra duct'-- Tail of Spence?)... Then around 15 weeks or
so, she began to experience pain in her left breast (described more as
'annoying' than extremely painful).    Described as a "deep in the breast"
rather than "surface" pain.  By the end of pregnancy, she was experiencing
"total numbness" in the affected breast covering the entire lower inner
quadrant.  "Burning pain" (rated 5-6 on a scale of 10) began after delivery
in the same breast quadrant and is sometimes aggravated by use of chest
muscles (particularly lifting) or surface stimulation.  

Associated signs/symptoms:  When pumping (infrequent, as she is a sahm), she
only gets about half the volume from the affected breast that she does the
unaffected breast.  

Pain is relieved after feeding.

Pain is worse at night.

Additional Information:  

Infant is exclusively breastfeeding, gaining adequate weight, normal output

I appreciate any thoughts/insights/ideas!

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