New Research Links Breathing Techniques and Neck Pain Reduction

If neck pain is affecting your daily life, you know how it can interfere with work, sleep, and the activities you enjoy. While chiropractic care at Layden Chiropractic addresses the structural components 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 systematic review and meta-analysis published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine examined the effectiveness of breathing exercises for neck pain management. The study found that breathing exercises can help lower pain intensity and improve function in patients with neck pain. (1) While the mechanisms are not completely understood, researchers believe these exercises may help by reducing muscle tension and pushing better posture awareness.

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

INTEGRATING MULTIPLE TREATMENT APPROACHES

Research supports the use of chiropractic care for a range of neck-related conditions. For example, research has reported successful treatment of cervical disc herniation with radiculopathy via flexion distraction decompression manipulation. (3) (At Layden Chiropractic we often refer to it as 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 suggests that breathing exercises are a low-risk addition to neck pain treatment. They're simple to learn and can be performed at home without special equipment. However, it's important to have realistic expectations—breathing exercises are one component of care, not a cure-all approach.

If you're curious about incorporating breathing exercises into your chiropractic treatment plan, we can talk about whether this approach makes sense for your specific condition and show you proper techniques during your next visit.

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