Back Issues that Can Affect Breathing

There are some unusual or unexpected ways something in your spine can affect other parts of your body. For instance, nerve tension in your neck areamight contribute to headaches. It's also possible for nerve irritation stemming from a problem in your lower back to be felt as pain extending to your hips, thighs, or legs. Another way back issues could affect you is by causing breathing difficulties. Here's what you need to know about back issues that can affect breathing.

What Causes Back Pain That Could Affect Breathing?

Not every problem that could affect your spine will make it difficult for you to breathe. However, the ones that do include strained spinal muscles in the mid-back (thoracic spine) area where the ribs are located. Because the thoracic spine is attached to the ribcage, strained muscles in this area may cause you to take shorter or smaller breaths to avoid triggering pain. Breathing problems may also develop because of the following spine-related issues:

• Scoliosis - This abnormal sideways curvature of the spine may place extra pressure on your lungs if the deformity is severe.
• Kyphosis - This is a similar spinal curvature abnormality where the spine abnormally curves forward. It could affect breathing if the degree of the forward curvature is severe.
• Pinched nerves - If a pinched or compressed nerve around your spine is located in the right area, the act of breathing may irritate it enough for you to take shallow breaths to avoid discomfort.

Excess weight can also place added pressure on your spine and lungs. Over time, this extra pressure could contribute to both spinal and breathing problems.

How Is a Diagnosis Made?

If your first major symptom is breathing difficulties, diagnosis may involve a visit to a respiratory specialist to rule out lung issues. Should spine-related problems be suspected, diagnosis usually involves a physical exam, a review of your medical history, and image tests.

What Are Your Treatment Options?

Once a diagnosis has been made, treatment will depend on what's specifically causing your back and breathing issues. Surgery may be necessary if the problem is due to a severe spinal deformity. If this is what's recommended for you, take comfort in knowing less invasive techniques are commonly used today. However, many back-related issues can be successfully managed or treated with conservative (nonsurgical) care options. The most common options include:

• Rest followed by stretching exercises for spine-related soft tissue strains or sprains
• Diet and exercise recommendations if excess weight is a factor
• The short-term use of anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxants, or pain meds
• An active physical therapy plan that includes therapeutic exercises

You may be able to reduce your risk of developing back issues that can affect breathing by being mindful of your overall health. Watching what you eat, getting plenty of exercise, and keeping an eye on your posture are just some of the ways you can accomplish this goal. Also, be proactive about seeing your doctor or a Los Angeles spine surgeon for any unusual discomfort you may be experiencing. Call The Spine Institute today at 310-828-7757.