Pain When You Breathe?

There are 5 layers of muscles in the human upper body, and most of them are in use when you breathe. This is why, when you have a cough or a sneeze with the cold or flu (or allergies) you can become very tight and sore when you move and breathe. Simple actions such as turning over in bed or lifting flour into the cupboard can leave you stunned and gasping. At what point should you be worried? Is it something for a doctor or a massage therapist or chiropractor?

1. If it improves when you control the cough it was probably muscular. Your muscles that assist with respiration are mostly between the ribs and around the collarbone. Take it easy; hydrate; and use a mild warm compress and steam.

2. If it comes with limited range of motion ask your chiropractor if he has time for a chat. If you describe your symptoms he/she can usually recognize what is a doctor visit and what is a musculoskeletal problem. If they can't tell then you might want to look for a different chiro....

3. If it is accompanied with green mucus or phlegm for more than a week or two then get in to see your MD, cause it is probably time for an antibiotic.

4. Is it Covid 19? Only a test can tell. Some Covid patients are asymptomatic, and we have all heard of different symptoms. Some might include cough; sore throat; fever; pain in the ribs (usually pleurosy); skin sensitivity (especially scalp and torso); headache; and long-term fatigue.

Get tested. Be nice and wear a mask. Get rest and fluids. And stock up on zinc and oscillocoinum (unless you need to consult your doctor about any contraindications for Kidney issues or medications).

5. If it is isolated to a small area or ratiates around the side and you don't have congestion and mucus issues; fever; or major fatigue; you very well may just need a massage and adjustment. Refer to #2.

That being said, always ask your MD if they want you to come in or if they think it sounds musculoskeletal. As a lymphatic therapist I bow to the recommendations of anyone who has a "D" in their credentials that doesn't stand for "Drainage". DC, NP, RN, and MD trumps CMLDT any day. Once you've been cleared and 72+ hours past beginning an antibiotic, I'dbe more than happy to help you get over the affects.