New Research Links Breathing Techniques and Neck Pain Reduction

If neck pain is affecting your daily life, you understand how it can affect your daily activities and overall quality of life. While chiropractic care at Poulin Chiropractic of Herndon and Ashburn addresses the structural issues of neck pain, recent research suggests that breathing exercises may offer additional benefits as part of a comprehensive treatment approach.

WHAT THE RESEARCH SHOWS

A 2025 study in the Journal of Clinical Medicine reviewed multiple clinical trials to assess whether breathing exercises effectively reduce neck pain. The study found that breathing exercises can help reduce pain intensity and improve function in patients with neck pain. (1) While the mechanisms aren't completely understood, researchers believe these exercises may help by decreasing muscle tension and promoting better posture awareness.

Another study focused particularly on patients with forward head posture—a common issue in our screen-dominated world. This research showed that rehabilitation programs integrating breathing interventions showed promise for managing chronic neck pain in this population. (2) Forward head posture places additional strain on neck structures, and addressing breathing patterns may help counteract some of these effects.

INTEGRATING MULTIPLE TREATMENT APPROACHES

Chiropractic treatment has a documented track record of effectively addressing different types of neck problems. For example, research has reported successful treatment of cervical disc herniation with radiculopathy via flexion distraction decompression manipulation. (3) (At Poulin Chiropractic of Herndon and Ashburn we often call it Cox® Technic!) Breathing exercises don't take the place of these manual therapy techniques but may complement them by addressing muscle tension and movement patterns between visits.

WHAT THIS MEANS FOR YOUR CARE

The evidence puts forth that adding breathing exercises to your care plan carries minimal risk. They're simple to learn and can be performed at home without special equipment. However, it's quite good to have realistic expectations—breathing exercises are one component of care, not a singular answer.

If breathing exercises sound like something you'd like to try, we can evaluate whether they're appropriate for your particular situation and show you the correct methods at your next appointment.

CONTACT Poulin Chiropractic of Herndon and Ashburn