Why is asthma a pain in the neck?
Many people notice tightness or pain in the neck, shoulders, or ribs during asthma flare-ups. This happens because the body begins to rely more on accessory breathing muscles when normal breathing becomes more difficult. Over time, these muscles can become overworked, leading to tension, discomfort, and even headaches.
Why asthma can cause neck pain
When we think of asthma, we usually focus on the lungs. However, asthma also affects how the body breathes — and which muscles are doing the work.
The primary muscles involved in breathing are the diaphragm and the intercostal muscles (the muscles between the ribs). During relaxed breathing, the diaphragm moves up and down while the ribs gently expand and contract.
When breathing becomes more difficult, the body recruits accessory muscles of respiration, including:
- Sternocleidomastoid (front of the neck)
- Scalenes (side of the neck)
- Pectoralis minor (upper chest)
These muscles help lift the ribs and collarbones to bring more air into the lungs. While helpful during short-term stress or flare-ups, chronic use of these muscles can lead to tension, neck pain, and referral headaches.
Signs your neck pain may be related to asthma
You may be experiencing asthma-related muscle tension if you notice:
- Neck and shoulder tightness during asthma or allergy flare-ups
- Headaches associated with breathing difficulty
- Rib or upper back soreness
- Feeling like you can’t take a full, deep breath
- Symptoms that improve as breathing improves
How treatment can help
While manual therapy does not treat asthma itself, it can be very effective in managing the secondary muscular symptoms that often come with it.
Massage therapy, chiropractic care, and physiotherapy can help:
- Reduce tension in overworked breathing muscles
- Improve rib and thoracic mobility
- Support more efficient diaphragm function
- Decrease strain on the neck and shoulders
- Promote nervous system relaxation
This can make breathing feel easier and reduce the physical discomfort that often accompanies asthma flare-ups.
Want to know more?
Accessory Muscles (Science Direct)
Book care for asthma-related neck pain in Ottawa
If you’re experiencing ongoing neck, shoulder, or rib discomfort alongside asthma or seasonal allergies, an assessment may help identify contributing factors and relieve tension.
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FAQ
Can asthma cause neck and shoulder pain?
Yes. Asthma can lead to overuse of accessory breathing muscles, such as the scalenes and sternocleidomastoid, which can result in neck and shoulder tension or pain.
