What causes difficulty breathing when rotating the upper body, and what should be done about it?

Difficulty breathing during upper body rotation may be caused by poor posture, irregular breathing rhythm, muscle tension, pleurisy, or bronchial asthma. Symptoms can be improved through posture adjustment, regular breathing, muscle relaxation, and medication. If symptoms persist or are accompanied by chest pain or wheezing, prompt medical attention is necessary.

1. Poor posture: Excessive twisting during rotation can compress the thoracic cavity, restricting lung expansion and causing breathing difficulties. It is recommended to control the range of motion during rotation, maintain a relaxed and extended posture, and avoid over-twisting the torso to reduce pressure on breathing.

2. Irregular breathing rhythm: Failure to coordinate breathing with movement—such as breath-holding or rapid breathing—can lead to insufficient oxygen supply and discomfort. Maintain steady, rhythmic breathing: inhale during rotation and exhale when returning to the starting position.

3. Muscle tension: Excessive tightness in shoulder, back, or chest wall muscles can restrict thoracic movement during rotation, leading to breathing difficulty and possibly muscle soreness. Apply heat therapy or gentle massage to relax tense muscles, and perform simple stretching exercises before rotating.

4. Pleurisy: Inflammation of the pleura due to infection or irritation can worsen during rotation due to increased friction, resulting in shortness of breath, chest pain, and coughing. Under medical guidance, medications such as cefixime dispersible tablets, ibuprofen sustained-release capsules, or amoxicillin capsules may be used to relieve symptoms.

5. Bronchial asthma: Airway hypersensitivity triggered by changes in body position during rotation may cause airway spasms, leading to breathing difficulty, wheezing, and chest tightness. Patients may use salbutamol inhalers, budesonide-formoterol powder inhalers, or montelukast sodium chewable tablets under medical supervision to alleviate symptoms.

Maintain proper sitting and standing posture regularly, avoid prolonged slouching or hunching, slow down movements when rotating, coordinate with rhythmic breathing, and engage in appropriate chest-expanding and stretching exercises to strengthen respiratory muscles and support overall airway health.