Investigating the Association Between Central Sensitization and Breathing Pattern Disorders : A STROBE-compliant Cross-sectional Study

Breathing pattern disorders impact consciousness and the body according to respiratory patterns, leading to physiological, mechanical, and psychological disturbances. Unlike normal breathing patterns facilitated by appropriate diaphragmatic activity, incorrect patterns often exhibit reduced diaphragmatic engagement. Chest breathing patterns are prevalent among chronic pain patients, characterized by limited upper chest segment movement due to prolonged improper respiration without specific pathological symptoms. Fluoroscopy studies reveal flattened and tense diaphragms with diminished relative mobility, implicating accessory and inspiratory muscles more heavily in ventilation. Biologically unsustainable functional breathing patterns correlate with chronic musculoskeletal issues and pain. Prior research establishes associations between inappropriate breathing patterns and chronic lower back pain and scapular dysfunctions. Consequently, managing chronic pain clinically necessitates functional recovery and pain relief, crucial for sustaining daily life. Therefore, researching central adaptations and respiration in chronic pain management is imperative, yet remains insufficiently explored.