According to preliminary data from Statista, from January to September 2023, 3.6% of deaths in the Philippines were due to chronic lower respiratory diseases (CLRDs). The numbers fluctuated since 2017, with the highest reported in 2017 and 2019. The data suggests that a significant portion of the population is faced with a public health challenge.
This is where chiropractic care that includes chiropractic massage comes in. Such a form of holistic method has shown potential with regard to improving the function of the said system. While its immediate focus is directed on the musculoskeletal (related to the bones, muscles, and joints) system, its benefits may extend to other systems of the body, including the respiratory.
How Does Chiropractic Treatment Help With Respiratory Health?
In general, chiropractic care centers on the connection between the spinal cord, the nervous system, and overall well-being. The spine houses the spinal cord, which is a vital component of the central nervous system.
It can be said that, in one way or another, the said cord is an extension of the brain since it communicates every organ as well as tissues in the body. Consequently, misalignments, also known as subluxations, may hamper nerve communication, and, therefore, interfere with optimum function of the respiratory system.
This is where chiropractic doctors come in. They perform manual adjustments and other techniques such as chiropractic massage to fix posture problems, correct misalignments, restore appropriate nerve function, and boost respiratory function.
Simply put, by finding and addressing the root causes of respiratory impairment, the said holistic approach offers an alternative to conventional medical treatments. Something that does not require drugs, surgery, and the like.
What are the Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Respiratory Health?
Improved lung capacity
Chiropractic doctors are known to perform spinal manipulation or chiropractic adjustment in an effort to boost overall health and well-being. A study that appeared in the National Library of Medicine (NLM) suggests that if done in the thoracic region (between the neck and abdomen) that has reduced mobility, the issue may be fixed and overall respiratory function may also improve.
While the experimental group is quite small, the potential of chiropractic treatment with regard to improving lung capacity cannot be denied. In line with this, it should be noted that changes in respiratory function post chiropractic adjustment may be higher with those with respiratory dysfunction.
Furthermore, while the reason for such benefits cannot be pinpointed, some studies suggest that the said procedure may boost lung capacity. This, by enhancing the function of the diaphragm as well as the intercostal muscles or the primary muscles that play a key role in breathing.
By re-establishing appropriate nerve communication to the aforementioned muscles, chiropractic massage and other forms of care can boost their ability to expand as well as contract, paving the way for increased lung capacity.
Reduced respiratory symptoms
A number of studies have explored the effects of chiropractic care on respiratory symptoms of ailments such as asthma. For one, a systematic review that was published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics took a look at a number of research studies and determined that the said treatment may play a key role in improving asthma symptoms as well as the overall quality of life of patients.
In addition, another research that was published in the Journal of Pediatric, Maternal and Family Health reported vast improvements in lung function as well as the overall health of asthma patients who receive chiropractic treatment that includes chiropractic massage.
Stress Reduction
A study that was performed by lecturers at the Universiti Putra Malaysia suggests that there was considerable evidence that an individual’s psychological status may have a negative impact on respiratory sensations. Here, occupational stress was a complex biopsychosocial situation that was recognized as a major health hazard since it manifested a disturbance of the respiratory system.
It added that respiratory symptoms related to stress included coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, chest tightness, and so on. Per the previous study, there was evidence that stress heightened the respiratory rate, and someone who is affected by it may require the body to take in more oxygen from the environment.
The good news is that the spinal adjustments that are performed by chiropractors can correct subluxations (partial dislocation of the spine) and restore the appropriate alignment of the spine.
The said adjustments, if properly executed, may significantly alleviate tension and calm the nervous system. In turn, it can have a positive impact on stress levels since it can lower the amount of cortisol (stress hormone) in the body.
Such a development can pave the way to reduced muscle, which can boost overall well-being. Plus, chiropractic care may also incorporate stress-reducing methods that include but are not limited to relaxation exercises, lifestyle modifications, and so on.
Factors to Consider When Turning to Chiropractic Care for Respiratory Health
Complementary Treatment
Chiropractic massage and care is considered a complementary method for respiratory ailments, which means that it should be utilized alongside conventional medical interventions. Putting this factor into consideration, it is best if a chiropractic doctor and a medical doctor is going to work hand-in-hand to discuss the appropriate methods for one’s condition.
Individualized Program
Chiropractors usually tailor-fit their program to the specific needs of patients based on specific needs as well as health history. They may utilize a wide range of techniques such as spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapies, and postural physical activities to address the individual concerns of patients.
Summing up
In the end, it can be said that the potential of chiropractic massage as well as other forms of treatment with regard to positively impacting respiratory health cannot be overlooked. They work by ensuring appropriate spine alignment, reducing inadequate muscle tension, and improving overall well-being, among others.
These are some of the reasons why chiropractor in Ph treatment is becoming more accessible nowadays. And, if you are looking to partake in the said holistic approach, visiting us at Posture Perfect Chiropractic is a worthwhile move that offers endless benefits.
Our experienced chiropractors can assist you with regard to supporting or improving your respiratory health. Book an appointment now and find out why chiropractic care is a valuable addition to your fitness plan.
