Many people associate chiropractic adjustment solely with improving spinal function. As we’ve noted multiple times on this blog, that’s just one of the many benefits of chiropractic care. Regular chiropractic treatments at our Temecula, CA practice can do so much more for your overall health and wellness. In fact, a number of studies have found that chiropractic adjustment can help address pulmonary health issues and respiratory problems.

The team here at Horst Chiropractic would like to consider some of the studies regarding chiropractic care and respiratory problems such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The research is revealing about the health benefits of chiropractic treatment.

The Journal of Physical Therapy Science Investigation

In September 2016, The Journal of Physical Therapy Science released a study about 30 individuals who suffer from respiratory disease. The age of the subjects ranged form 20 to 38. Half of the individuals were given chiropractic adjustments while the control group underwent a fake therapy with neutral impact to respiratory health.

Based on the data gathered by researchers, chiropractic care “significantly increased” a person’s forced vital capacity (amount of air that can be inhaled) and forced expiratory volume (amount of air that can be exhaled). In the control group, there was no change in forced vital capacity or forced expiratory volume.

Additional Studies on Chiropractic Care and Pulmonary Health

In addition to the study noted above, there has been additional research that’s suggested the respiratory health benefits of chiropractic adjustment.

In one previous study, 87 Swedish chiropractors were surveyed on patient symptoms that were improved by chiropractic care. According to these chiropractors, 26 percent of patients said it was easier to breathe after undergoing chiropractic adjustment.

There’s also an Australian study worth considering. The research focused on 15 people with moderate COPD. Five of these patients underwent soft tissue therapy; five underwent soft tissue therapy and spinal manipulation; and the remaining five received soft tissue therapy, spinal manipulation, and exercise. Each group experienced improved lung capacity, though the group that receive soft tissue therapy, spinal manipulation, and exercise experienced the most benefits to their respiratory health.

How Chiropractic Care Helps Address Pulmonary Disease

So what is it about chiropractic care that helps address pulmonary disease and respiratory problems?

Part of the issue has to do with the chest wall. When the chest wall is constricted and cannot move properly, conditions such as COPD can progress and get worse. Chiropractic care helps improve the body’s range of motion, which places less strain on the chest.

Chiropractic care can also improve the function of the spinal nerves, which help control breathing and other bodily functions. When nerves are constricted or pinched, they may not be functioning optimally. Chiropractic adjustment helps make sure your entire body is in proper order.

A Focus on Total Wellness

As the Australian study revealed, a combination of professional therapies and lifestyle improvements led to the most health benefits for patients with COPD. As part of our holistic approach to chiropractic care, we always offer tips on exercise, diet, and lifestyle that can enhance a person’s overall sense of well being.

Learn More about Chiropractic Care

For more information about chiropractic adjustments and how they can help you achieve total wellness, be sure to contact a skilled chiropractor. The team at Horst Chiropractic will help you feel healthier and improve your sense of overall well being.