New Research Links Breathing Techniques and Neck Pain Reduction
If you're experiencing neck pain, you know how it can interfere with work, sleep, and the activities you enjoy. While chiropractic care at Manchester Chiropractic & Sports Injuries addresses the structural components of neck pain, recent research suggests that breathing exercises may offer additional benefits as part of a comprehensive treatment approach.
WHAT THE RESEARCH SHOWS
A 2025 study in the Journal of Clinical Medicine assessed multiple clinical trials to assess whether breathing exercises effectively lower neck pain. The study found that breathing exercises can help lower pain intensity and boost function in patients with neck pain. (1) While the mechanisms aren't completely understood, researchers believe these exercises may help by decreasing muscle tension and promoting better posture awareness.
Another study focused specifically on patients with forward head posture—a common issue in our screen-dominated world. This research indicated that rehabilitation programs incorporating breathing interventions showed promise for handling chronic neck pain in this population. (2) When your head shifts forward from its natural alignment, it puts extra stress on the muscles, ligaments, and joints of the neck, and correcting your breathing mechanics may help reduce this burden.
INTEGRATING MULTIPLE TREATMENT APPROACHES
Research supports the utilization of chiropractic care for a range of neck-related conditions. For example, research has reported successful treatment of cervical disc herniation with radiculopathy via flexion distraction decompression manipulation. (3) (At Manchester Chiropractic & Sports Injuries we often refer to it as Cox® Technic!) Breathing exercises don't replace these manual therapy techniques but may complement them by addressing muscle tension and movement patterns between visits.
WHAT THIS MEANS FOR YOUR CARE
The evidence suggests that breathing exercises are a low-risk addition to neck pain treatment. They're simple to learn and can be done at home without special equipment. However, it's quite good to have realistic expectations—breathing exercises are one component of care, not a singular answer.
If breathing exercises sound like something you'd like to try, we can evaluate whether they're appropriate for your particular situation and show you the correct methods at your next appointment.
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