May 3, 2023

Asthma and Chiropractic

By Dr. Dan Foss, DC

Asthma is a chronic disease marked by inflammation and narrowing of the airways of the lungs, resulting in the symptoms of wheezing, chest tightness, shortness of breath and coughing. The effects of asthma can range from mild discomfort, to severe difficulty breathing, to death from respiratory failure in extreme cases.

More than 20 million Americans have asthma, including more than 6 million children under 18. Asthma is one of the most common chronic illnesses and one with a serious public health impact. There has been a dramatic increase in asthma cases in both children and adults over the last 30 to 40 years. While the exact cause is unknown, many doctors believe the increase is due to environmental factors.

The Nervous System Connection to Asthma

What many people don't realize is that the nervous system plays a central role in regulating breathing. The nerves that control bronchial dilation and constriction — the very mechanisms that trigger an asthma attack — originate in the thoracic spine (mid-back). When vertebrae in the thoracic region are misaligned or restricted, they can create interference in the nervous system that affects how the lungs and airways respond to environmental triggers.

This is the foundation of the chiropractic approach to asthma. By correcting spinal misalignments (subluxations) that interfere with the nerve pathways governing respiratory function, chiropractic care may help reduce the frequency and severity of asthma symptoms — especially in children, whose nervous systems are particularly responsive to structural correction.

How Chiropractic May Help Asthma Patients

Chiropractic care does not "cure" asthma and should not replace prescribed medications like inhalers or controller medications. However, a growing body of research and decades of clinical experience suggest that chiropractic adjustments can provide meaningful support for asthma patients by:

Reducing nerve interference in the thoracic spine that affects bronchial tone and lung function
Improving thoracic mobility, which allows for fuller, more efficient breathing mechanics
Addressing rib and diaphragm dysfunction that can restrict the depth of each breath
Supporting the immune system by reducing overall nervous system stress and improving lymphatic drainage
Decreasing systemic inflammation through the whole-body effects of structural correction

Many patients — particularly children — report that regular chiropractic adjustments lead to fewer asthma episodes, reduced need for rescue inhalers, and better overall quality of life.

Asthma in Children: Why Chiropractic Makes Sense

Children are particularly good candidates for chiropractic care as part of an asthma management strategy. The birth process itself can create cervical and thoracic spinal stress that affects nervous system function from the very beginning of life. As children grow, minor falls, sports, and postural habits can compound these structural issues.

At Pura Vida Chiropractic, Dr. Dan Foss has extensive experience working with pediatric patients. He uses gentle, age-appropriate adjusting techniques that are safe and comfortable even for infants and toddlers. Many parents report that their children's breathing improves markedly after beginning regular chiropractic care.

What to Expect at Pura Vida Chiropractic

When you or your child comes in for an evaluation related to asthma, Dr. Foss will conduct a thorough health history and physical examination, paying particular attention to the thoracic spine, rib cage mechanics, and postural alignment. Digital X-rays may be taken to assess the structural status of the spine.

Treatment typically involves gentle spinal adjustments focused on the thoracic spine and ribs, with complementary work on the cervical spine and pelvis as needed. Dr. Foss's advanced training in Sacro-Occipital Technique (SOT) allows him to use very gentle blocking and positioning techniques — particularly valuable for children and patients who may be uncomfortable with more forceful manipulation.

Why Choose Dr. Dan Foss

Dr. Foss has been practicing chiropractic in San Antonio for over 23 years. He holds Advanced SOT Certification through SORSI and has specialized training in cranial adjusting and pediatric chiropractic care. His approach is always thorough, gentle, and individualized — not one-size-fits-all.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is chiropractic safe for children with asthma? Yes. Chiropractic care is very safe for children when provided by a practitioner with proper pediatric training. Dr. Foss uses gentle, low-force methods appropriate for each child's age and size.

How long before we see results? Many parents notice improvement in their child's breathing and reduction in symptom frequency within the first few weeks of care. Consistency over time produces the best results.

Should my child stop taking their asthma medication? No. Never discontinue prescribed medications without consulting your child's physician. Chiropractic care works alongside medical management, not as a replacement for it.

Serving Families Across San Antonio

Pura Vida Chiropractic serves pediatric patients and families from Stone Oak, Alamo Heights, Castle Hills, Leon Valley, Helotes, Shavano Park, Boerne, and the Medical Center. If you're looking for a chiropractor who truly understands children's health needs, Dr. Foss is here to help.

Ready to Feel Better? Book Your Free Consultation Today

Pura Vida Chiropractic 2318 NW Military Hwy #103, San Antonio, TX 78231 📞 Call (210) 685-1994 🕐 Monday, Tuesday, Thursday: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM

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