Breathe Easier: How Chiropractic Care Can Support People with Asthma
Asthma affects over 25 million people in the U.S. alone. It can range from a mild nuisance to a life-disrupting condition that limits activity, sleep, and overall quality of life. While inhalers and medications are often essential, many people are searching for complementary, non-pharmaceutical options to manage their symptoms and support their respiratory health. Chiropractic care is one such option.
Can Chiropractic Help with Asthma?
Chiropractic care doesn't treat asthma directly—but it helps to improve the way your body functions overall, especially the nervous system, which controls the lungs and respiratory muscles. By correcting spinal misalignments (aka subluxations), chiropractors help remove interference in the nervous system. This can allow the body to better regulate breathing, respond to inflammation, and reduce tension in the chest and diaphragm.
The Nervous System-Respiratory Link
Your brain communicates with your lungs and airways through the spinal cord and nerves. If there’s pressure or irritation along the spine—particularly in the mid-back (thoracic spine) where nerves connect to the lungs—it can disrupt this communication. Chiropractors focus on restoring proper alignment in this area, which may improve the body’s ability to regulate breathing and calm the stress response that often exacerbates asthma attacks.
What Does the Research Say?
While research is still ongoing, some studies and case reports suggest chiropractic adjustments may:
Reduce the frequency and severity of asthma attacks
Improve breathing patterns and lung function
Enhance overall quality of life in children and adults with asthma
For example, a study in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found that children receiving chiropractic care alongside medical treatment reported fewer asthma symptoms and better activity levels than those receiving medical care alone.
Chiropractic for Kids with Asthma
Asthma is the #1 chronic illness in children, and many parents seek safe, gentle options to support their child’s health. Pediatric chiropractic care is adapted specifically for little ones and focuses on reducing stress in the nervous system. Many parents report fewer respiratory flare-ups, better sleep, and improved energy after their child begins chiropractic care.
Whole-Body Wellness Matters
Chiropractic care is part of a holistic approach to health. At Cultivate Chiropractic, we look at more than just symptoms—we consider your posture, alignment, stress levels, diet, and lifestyle. All of these play a role in inflammation, immune function, and respiratory health.
By supporting the body’s natural ability to function and heal, chiropractic can be a valuable part of an asthma wellness plan.