Do you struggle to draw in a full breath? The condition of your musculoskeletal system has more to do with how you breathe than you may think! Using the correct physiotherapy breathing techniques may help to reduce the pressure on your body, potentially making breathing easier.
But why is correct breathing technique so important, and how may physiotherapy help? In this article, we’ll outline how physiotherapy may support your breathing, which techniques may work best, and how they may benefit you in a range of different ways.
For personalised advice, contact our team at Core Physiotherapy & Pilates Studio today.
The impact of correct breathing
Breathing is an important part of the body’s ability to function, yet many people experience breathing difficulties. This could be caused by an underlying condition, recent illness, lack of fitness, or simply poor technique. Regardless of its potential cause, you should always speak to a medical professional if you have any breathing difficulties.
Further, breathing is about more than simply letting fresh air into your lungs. It allows oxygen to seep into your bloodstream and circulate through your body to create energy. This energy is then used by the different systems in the body to function properly.
A poor breathing technique may mean that you absorb less oxygen, which may significantly impact your physical wellbeing. You may become tired more easily, experience muscle weakness, pain, increased stress, memory issues, and more. All of these have the potential to make your life more difficult, and that’s the last thing you want!
Proper breathing technique may not only ensure your overall wellness, but may also provide the energy your body needs to recover and rehabilitate after an injury. Whether you’ve recently sustained an injury or have had breathing difficulties for any length of time, you should address it sooner rather than later.
What physiotherapy has the potential to do
Physiotherapy focuses on using manual techniques in an effort to improve how the body functions. With their knowledge and experience in supporting the body’s entire wellbeing, a physiotherapist aims to offer incredibly valuable advice and support that may improve your breathing technique.
This professional guidance not only ensures you are using the correct methods but also means you can enjoy tailored support. If you struggle with breathing, you likely have your own unique reason for doing so.
Whether it’s an underlying health condition or another concern, your physiotherapist can assess your specific needs and tailor breathing exercises to match.
The benefits of proper technique
As we’ve mentioned, proper breathing technique is crucial in supporting your overall health. But what are its specific breathing benefits? Proper technique and breathing exercises have been linked to improved posture, reduced tension, and an increased recovery speed.
Likewise, many people have linked reduced tension through breathing as supportive of mental health. It has been known to help reduce stress and anxiety.
Correct breathing techniques may also support pain management. Many people can struggle to catch their breath when in pain, which is often frightening and may worsen their experience. Proper breathing may reduce the heart rate, calm the body, and alleviate tension that may worsen the patient’s condition.
Breathing exercise for physiotherapy
There are several different physiotherapy techniques that aim to directly support your breathing and health. Through consistent exercise, you may even work to strengthen your lungs and respiratory system.
1. Deep breathing
This breathing method caims to expand your lungs, allowing more air into your body. This technique is typically especially useful if you are struggling to breathe due to pain. You may need a physiotherapist to help guide you through this technique.
- Your physiotherapist will place their hands at the bottom of your ribs.
- Breathe out– your physiotherapist will press in and down against your lower ribs.
- Your physiotherapist will help apply a stretch across the area where they have applied pressure.
- You will then be instructed to breathe in and then release your breath.
2. Pursed lip breathing
This is a simple technique that you can do at home that may help slow down your heart rate and ensure you are getting enough air. Many people who live with asthma or experience anxiety attacks use this technique.
- Purse your lips and exhale through them.
- Breathe in through your nose.
- Repeat this method, try to exhale for three seconds and inhale for five.
3. Belly breathing
Belly breathing is an exercise that aims to strengthen your diaphragm, potentially making it easier for you to draw in and expel air.
- You will need to sit in a semi-fowler position. This means lying on your back with your upper body elevated into a partially upright position.
- Place a hand on your chest and stomach and breathe deeply.
- The hand on your stomach should be the one that rises first.
- Inhale slowly for five seconds and exhale through your nose for three seconds, and repeat.
Put your health in the right hands
If you have experienced issues with breathing, there are ways you may be able to get the help you need. At Core Physiotherapy & Pilates Studio, we work closely with all our patients to ensure their needs are being met with tailored support.
Don’t brush off your concerns– take the next step in your healthcare journey with a team that will put you first. Reach out to us today and book a physiotherapy session or consultation at one of our Adelaide clinics today.
