Can Focused Breathing Help Fibromyalgia Pain?
Fibromyalgia has recently been associated with a deficit in sensory processing - meaning, your nervous system has a communication issue.
There seems to be a mismatch between the nerves that provide sensory information and the muscles, that rely on this input for proper function. According to one UK researcher, there is a
"growing body of evidence that many of the symptoms of this common disorder may be perpetuated, or even triggered, by this sensory-motor conflict."
Fibromyalgia is also related to stress, as stress seems to aggravate the condition. Deep breathing is one method of reducing stress that may provide some measure of relief for those suffering from this chronic condition.
Abdominal (diaphragm) breathing is promoted by certain health professionals as beneficial for increased mobility in some joints and added stability in other. Proper diaphragm breathing can increase reflex stability in the muscles that support the spine.
This increased stability can help increase the mobility of the thoracic spine. It can also help reduce tension in the shoulders and ribcage - allowing you to breathe deeper and more efficiently.
The muscles of these areas are frequently stiff and sore in those with fibromyalgia and this might provide some relief. We are meant to breathe primarily through the stomach, with assistance from muscles in the upper torso.
When breathing improperly, these muscles work harder than they need to, which can contribute to them being tight and sore.
So whether you have fibromyalgia or not, you can use a "breathing break" to help de-stress and take some tension off your low back.
There seems to be a mismatch between the nerves that provide sensory information and the muscles, that rely on this input for proper function. According to one UK researcher, there is a
"growing body of evidence that many of the symptoms of this common disorder may be perpetuated, or even triggered, by this sensory-motor conflict."
Fibromyalgia is also related to stress, as stress seems to aggravate the condition. Deep breathing is one method of reducing stress that may provide some measure of relief for those suffering from this chronic condition.
Abdominal (diaphragm) breathing is promoted by certain health professionals as beneficial for increased mobility in some joints and added stability in other. Proper diaphragm breathing can increase reflex stability in the muscles that support the spine.
This increased stability can help increase the mobility of the thoracic spine. It can also help reduce tension in the shoulders and ribcage - allowing you to breathe deeper and more efficiently.
The muscles of these areas are frequently stiff and sore in those with fibromyalgia and this might provide some relief. We are meant to breathe primarily through the stomach, with assistance from muscles in the upper torso.
When breathing improperly, these muscles work harder than they need to, which can contribute to them being tight and sore.
So whether you have fibromyalgia or not, you can use a "breathing break" to help de-stress and take some tension off your low back.
You might also be interested in my article on whole body vibration.
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