Asthma is a common but chronic condition that affects a person’s respiratory system. For those living with asthma, the airways can occasionally become inflamed, constricted, and produce extra mucus, making it difficult to breathe. A number of medical treatments exist to help manage some of the symptoms, including the administration of steroids alongside the occasional use of an inhaler. However, even with these medications, many patients still find their asthma symptoms persist and turn to alternative treatments, like aromatherapy, yoga, and massage therapy. But how exactly can massage therapy relieve asthma symptoms?

3 Ways Massage Therapy Is Beneficial for People With Asthma

1. Relaxed Upper Body Muscles

Therapeutic massage for asthma patients focuses on releasing tension in areas of the upper body associated with breathing. When the muscles of the neck, chest, and upper back are tight, this can place additional pressure on the airways, making it difficult to breathe. When administered correctly, massage therapy has been shown to decrease the pressure in these areas, allowing patients to breathe more easily.

2. Improved Lung Function

Asthmatic patients who routinely visit their chiropractor for therapeutic massages report feeling less pressure in their chest and back and have an easier time breathing overall. Although research is ongoing, it is believed that by relaxing the muscles of the back and chest, some of the pressure on the lungs is alleviated, resulting in improved lung function.

3. Reduced Anxiety

One of the paradoxes of living with asthma is the anxiety it can cause. During an asthma attack, the person feels anxious about the fact that they can’t breathe and begins to hyperventilate. Hyperventilation further restricts the flow of oxygen into the lungs and worsens the attack. With regular massage therapy, patients begin to feel a reduced sense of anxiety, which makes it easier for them to stay calm during an asthma attack. This calm state allows them to take in air more efficiently, thereby reducing the severity of the attack.

If you or someone you love is living with asthma and would benefit from massage therapy, visit The Center of Chiropractic. To reach the location in La Crosse, WI, call (608)785-2225. For the practice in Onalaska, WI, dial (608)785-7778, and for the team in Winona, MN, call (507) 454-7870. Contact the location nearest you today to schedule an appointment, or visit their website to learn more about the benefits of chiropractic care.