Hyperventilation and shortness of breath

Have you ever experienced:

  • Frequent sighing and yawning
  • Breathing discomfort*
  • Disturbed sleep
  • Erratic heartbeats*
  • Feeling anxious
  • Pins and needles
  • Upset gut/nausea
  • Chest pains*
  • Shattered confidence
  • Tiredness and fatigue
  • Achy muscles and joints
  • Dizzy spells* or feeling ‘spaced out’
  • Irritability or jumpiness
  • Feelings of ‘air hunger’

These are the most common symptoms resulting from disordered breathing.

*See your doctor first if you are experiencing these problems.

You’re not alone

One in ten New Zealanders experience some form of breathing disorder or chronic over-breathing. This can produce a range of disturbing symptoms baffling to both patient and doctor. Worry over this may lead to further over breathing and built-up of symptoms. Breathing this way can become a habit. This in itself is a major stress and a vicious cycle is created.

Our specialized physiotherapy service is designed to break the cycle; restoring energy-efficient breathing, improving energy levels and renewing self-confidence

Why this happens

Physical Sense therapists are specialized in helping you restoring your breathing patterns.

This is the only clinic in Christchurch that uses the BradCliff method® which has been developed by Auckland physiotherapists Dinah Bradley and Tania Clifton-Smith. Tania and Dinah have published 6 books on the subject of breathing disorders, and are recognized as experts in their field.

Triggers for hyperventilation

  • Anaemia
  • Asthma or COPD
  • “Burning the candle at both ends”
  • Cough and colds/bronchitis
  • Chronic pain-physical and emotional
  • Frequent or stressful telephone calls
  • Grief/anxiety
  • Hormone imbalances – PMT or menopause
  • Mouth-breathing/nasal problems
  • Poor posture/ergonomics
  • Tight clothes
  • Viral sickness