Did you have COVID-19 several months ago and still feel discomfort when breathing? Do you have asthma and experience lingering pain after an attack?

There is good news: osteopathy can help you optimize your breathing capacity and support you in managing respiratory difficulties.

Which Respiratory Conditions Are We Talking About?

Respiratory diseases affect the airways: the nasal passages, bronchi and lungs. They include short-term illnesses such as bronchitis and COVID-19, as well as chronic conditions such as asthma, respiratory allergies (pollen, animals, dust mites, etc.) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. These conditions cause breathing difficulties and can sometimes leave lasting lung problems, as may happen with coronavirus, for example.

What Role Can Osteopathy Play?

Please remember that your osteopath cannot cure the disease itself. If you have a chronic condition, ongoing care from a medical team is essential, and you should see your doctor for a short-term illness. Also, do not attend an osteopathy appointment while you have a fever or an acute cough.

Osteopathy primarily addresses the after-effects of illness. When the airways become inflamed and narrowed, breathing becomes difficult. In asthma, for example, attacks create musculoskeletal tension. Excessive coughing can cause dysfunction in the rib cage, diaphragm and spine. Illness places stress on the body. The osteopath’s goal is to restore mobility to structures affected by mechanical restrictions, helping patients breathe more fully again.

Tips for Recovering After a Respiratory Illness:

• Consult an osteopath once the acute phase has passed
• Return to physical activity gradually
• Practise breathing exercises that move your diaphragm, such as paced breathing for heart rate coherence

If you are in pain, consult an osteopath to find out what is causing it and how to address it!

Call us for an appointment or book online!