Breastfeeding Pain or Tongue Tie Concerns?
Breastfeeding is natural, but that does not mean it is always easy.
If feeding hurts, takes hours, or just does not feel right, or if your baby is constantly unsettled, you are not overthinking it, and you can ask for help.
We offer a calm, thorough tongue tie assessment and breastfeeding support for local families in Rushden and the surrounding area.
Our approach is gentle, balanced and based on function, not fear.
What is tongue tie?
Tongue tie happens when the small piece of tissue under the tongue, called the frenulum, is tight or restrictive.
Some babies have a visible frenulum that causes no problems at all. Others have a restriction that affects how the tongue moves, particularly during feeding.
What matters is not just what it looks like. What matters is how it functions.
If the tongue cannot lift or extend properly, it can affect latch, milk transfer and comfort.
Signs That Something Might Not Be Quite Right
You might notice:
- Pain during feeding
- Cracked or damaged nipples
- Clicking noises while feeding
- Very long feeds
- Baby coming on and off the breast
- Gassiness or reflux type symptoms
- A baby who seems unsettled or frustrated
If your baby is gaining weight but feeding still feels uncomfortable, that still matters.
Our Tongue Tie Assessment
Your appointment is not rushed – we’ll take time to do a full assessment and also look at what other factors (neck stiffness for example) might be causing the problems.
Kate Walton and Celia Crook are experienced paediatric osteopaths and tongue tie assessors. They’re also breastfeeding consultants registered with The Federation of Antenatal Educators (FEDANT) and treat many women through pregnancy.
Your assessment includes:
- A detailed feeding history
- Birth history
- Observation of a feed where appropriate
- Assessment of tongue movement and function
- Gentle assessment of the jaw, neck and whole body movement
- Clear discussion of our findings and options
We focus on how your baby feeds, not just how the tongue looks.
Does Every Tongue Tie Need Treatment
No.
Some tongue ties cause no issues at all. And some feeding problems are caused by other factors. That’s why it’s important to have a professional assess the problem as a whole, not just the tongue.
Assessment is about understanding whether the restriction is affecting feeding and comfort. Sometimes practical positioning, hands-on treatment for muscle tightness and advice make a significant difference.
Where further intervention is appropriate, we will explain this clearly.
Kate Schuetz-Walton says:
"If you are up at night wondering whether something is wrong or not, you don't have to work it out alone."
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my baby has tongue tie?
You might notice pain during feeding, clicking sounds, very long feeds, difficulty staying latched, or a baby who seems unsettled despite feeding often.
However, not every visible frenulum causes a problem. What matters most is how your baby feeds and whether feeding feels comfortable and sustainable for you.
A proper assessment looks at function, not just appearance.
Does every tongue tie need to be cut?
No.
Many babies have a visible frenulum that causes no feeding difficulty at all. Decisions about further treatment are based on function, comfort and feeding effectiveness, not simply on how the tongue looks.
Sometimes reassurance and positioning support are all that is needed.
What does a tongue tie look like?
A tongue tie is a tight or restrictive band of tissue under the tongue. Some are very obvious. Others are more subtle and only noticeable when assessing tongue movement.
It is not always possible to tell just by looking casually. That is why assessment focuses on movement and feeding function.
Can tongue tie affect bottle feeding as well as breastfeeding?
Yes, it can.
Some babies with tongue restriction may dribble milk, tire easily, take a long time to finish a bottle or struggle with coordination. Feeding is a complex skill whether breast or bottle.
Can tongue tie cause reflux or wind?
Feeding difficulties can sometimes lead to extra air intake, which may contribute to wind or discomfort. Not all reflux symptoms are caused by tongue tie, but feeding mechanics are always worth considering.
A full assessment of the mouth, head, neck and chest area helps clarify what may be contributing
If my baby is gaining weight, does that mean everything is fine?
Weight gain is important, but it is not the only measure of feeding wellbeing.
If feeding is painful, exhausting or emotionally stressful, that matters too. You do not need to ignore discomfort simply because weight gain is adequate.
Is tongue tie over diagnosed?
There is increasing awareness of tongue tie, which means more parents are asking questions.
Our approach is balanced and function based. We assess whether a restriction is genuinely affecting feeding and whether other factors are involved too. Not every frenulum requires intervention.
When would you refer for further treatment?
If tongue function appears significantly restricted and feeding remains difficult despite support, we will discuss referral options with you.
We work collaboratively and will always explain your options so you can make an informed decision.
Is osteopathy safe for newborn babies?
Yes.
Osteopathic treatment for babies is extremely gentle. It involves light, careful techniques aimed at supporting comfort, movement and coordination. Babies’ skeletons are softer than an adult’s and osteopaths will therefore use gentler techniques such as cranial osteopathy when treating babies.
Is it too late to get help if my baby is a few months old?
No.
Support can be helpful at many stages. Whether your baby is a few days or a few months old, assessment can provide clarity and reassurance.
Will I be wasting your time if nothing is wrong?
Absolutely not.
Reassurance is valuable. If feeding feels difficult or you are unsure, it is reasonable to ask questions and to ask for help.
