She Strengthens

The Surprising Link Between Asthma and Back Pain

Are you tired of dealing with wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath due to asthma, only to find that you’re also struggling with back pain? You’re not alone. Research suggests that these two conditions might be more connected than you think.

Understanding the Connection

When you breathe, multiple muscles work together to help you inhale and exhale. These inspiratory muscles, including your diaphragm and external intercostals, also play a crucial role in supporting and stabilizing your spine. However, people with asthma often have a harder time exhaling air from their lungs, which can put additional stress on these muscles. This stress can lead to changes in posture, resulting in back pain.

The Role of Core Muscles

Your core muscles, including your diaphragm and external intercostals, are responsible for maintaining intra-abdominal pressure, which helps keep your body upright. When you have asthma, your diaphragm works harder to breathe, which can disrupt this delicate balance and lead to back pain.

Identifying Asthma Symptoms

If you’re unsure whether you’re dealing with asthma, look out for common symptoms such as:

• Wheezing (a whistling sound when you breathe)
• Shortness of breath
• Chest tightness (which can sometimes be painful too)
• Coughing

Triggers and Emergency Situations

Certain triggers can bring on an asthma attack, including pet dander, dust mites, pollen, mold, smoke, and air pollution. If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention immediately:

• Unable to say more than a couple of words due to shortness of breath
• Chest muscles straining to breathe
• Symptoms so severe you can’t walk
• Lips or fingernails turning blue
• Symptoms not improving after using a rescue inhaler

Treatment Options

Your doctor will develop a treatment plan tailored to your unique situation, which may include:

• Medications such as anticholinergics, anti-inflammatories, and biologic therapy drugs
• Allergy shots or immunotherapy to minimize triggers
• Quick-acting medications for emergency situations
• Pain medications or steroid injections for back pain

Home Remedies for Relief

In addition to medical treatments, you can try the following home remedies to find relief:

• Breathing techniques such as the Buteyko method, pursed lip breathing, deep diaphragmatic breathing, and the Papworth method
• Acupuncture, massage, heat/ice therapy, and warm baths to relieve back pain
• Oils and ointments, as well as over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications, with your doctor’s approval

Finding Relief

If you’re struggling with asthma and back pain, talk to your doctor about potential treatments and home remedies that can help. By addressing your asthma, you may find relief from back pain, and vice versa. Take control of your health and start breathing easier today.