When we think about respiratory challenges like asthma, allergies, or chronic bronchitis, our first thought is usually to address the lungs or airways directly. But did you know that spinal health can also play a role in respiratory function? Chiropractors take a whole-body approach to health, and that includes supporting the body’s ability to breathe well and function efficiently.
As your trusted Billings chiropractor, Dr. Thomas Keogh has seen firsthand how a well-aligned spine can positively influence the nervous system and, in turn, the systems responsible for breathing. Whether you’re dealing with seasonal allergies or managing a chronic respiratory condition, chiropractic care may offer an added layer of support to help you feel and function better.
The Spine-Respiratory Connection
The lungs are controlled by the autonomic nervous system, which is responsible for regulating involuntary functions such as breathing. This system communicates with the lungs through nerves that pass through the spine, particularly in the thoracic region (the upper and mid-back). When spinal misalignments occur in this area, they may interfere with the function of these nerves, potentially affecting how the lungs and chest muscles perform.
In some individuals, this disruption can cause difficulty taking full breaths, bring about shallow breathing, or even exacerbate pre-existing respiratory conditions. While chiropractic care does not claim to “treat” respiratory disorders, it does focus on optimizing nervous system function, which may support improved breathing mechanics and overall comfort.
Chiropractic Support for Respiratory Health
At Bare Chiropractic, our goal is to support your body’s natural ability to function at its best. For those dealing with respiratory issues, chiropractic adjustments can help do the following:
- Improve Posture: Poor posture, especially forward head posture or a slouched upper back, can compress the chest and reduce lung capacity. Adjustments help realign the spine and promote better posture, allowing the lungs to expand more fully.
- Reduce Nervous System Interference: When the spine is properly aligned, the nerves that connect to the lungs and respiratory muscles can process communication more efficiently, which may contribute to easier, more effective breathing.
- Enhance Chest Mobility: Tension in the thoracic spine or rib cage can limit chest movement. Gentle chiropractic adjustments can help restore mobility, allowing for deeper and more comfortable breaths.
- Promote Whole-Body Wellness: Since respiratory health is closely tied to stress levels, sleep quality, and immune function, addressing spinal alignment can support multiple factors that influence how well you breathe.
Many people are surprised to learn how interconnected their spine and lungs truly are. Small changes in spinal alignment can have wide-reaching effects throughout the body—including breathing and lung performance.
Breathe Easier with Bare Chiropractic
Many individuals who visit Dr. Thomas Keogh report feeling improvements not just in spinal comfort, but also in areas like energy, sleep, and even breathing. For those managing chronic respiratory conditions, chiropractic care can be a supportive piece of a larger health puzzle.
Ready to take the next step toward better function and comfort? Schedule your visit with Dr. Thomas Keogh today and discover the difference chiropractic can make.
Sources
Nielsen, N.H., Bronfort, G., Bendix, T., Madsen, F., Weeke, B. “Chronic asthma and chiropractic spinal manipulation: a randomized clinical trial.” Clinical and Experimental Allergy, 1995 Jan; 25 (1): 80-8. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/7728627/
“Respiratory Disorders.” UT Southwestern Medical Center. https://utswmed.org/conditions-treatments/respiratory-disorders/
