Most people who live with asthma experience symptoms like coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. However, many aren’t aware asthma can also be linked to back pain.
Read on to learn more.
Asthma and Back Pain
Various muscles are activated when we breathe. They are called inspiratory muscles. These include the diaphragm and the external intercostal muscles.
Besides breathing, these muscles have another essential function: spinal control. They keep our bodies upright by forming and maintaining the intra-abdominal pressure.
People with asthma have difficulty exhaling air from their lungs. Since patients are constantly “stuck” in the inspiration breathing phase, the diaphragm’s function changes. This puts a strain on the muscles that control your spine and can cause back pain.
A 2016 study published in the National Library of Medicine found a correlation between asthma and similar respiratory disorders and back pain. However, more research is needed in this field.
Treatments for Asthma and Back Pain
Unfortunately, there’s currently no cure for asthma. Of course, this doesn’t mean there are no treatments to improve your quality of life and help you manage symptoms.
Anticholinergics are medications that relax your airways and prevent muscles from tightening around them. They can help asthma patients breathe more easily. Many people with asthma also use anti-inflammatories that regulate the amount of mucus in the lungs.
Those with asthma-related back pain will often receive pain medications or muscle relaxants.
Home Remedies Can Help
Numerous breathing techniques can help you manage asthma symptoms. If you have asthma-related back pain, you can try acupuncture, heat and ice therapy, and different oils and ointments. Plus, over-the-counter pain relievers can help but keep in mind that you should consult your doctor before taking them.
