Capnography Breathing Assessment

(CapnoTrainer GO)

Capnography Breathing Assessment with the CapnoTrainer GO is a non-invasive evaluation that measures the concentration of carbon dioxide (CO₂) in exhaled air, breath by breath. By tracking end-tidal CO₂ and the shape of the capnogram waveform, this assessment reveals how breathing patterns influence ventilation, acid–base balance, circulation, and symptoms such as anxiety, dizziness, and pain.

Mechanism of Action:

Capnography Breathing Assessment promotes:  

  • Real-time monitoring of end-tidal CO₂ (ETCO₂) and breathing rhythm

  • Identification of dysfunctional breathing patterns (over-breathing, breath-holding, erratic breathing)

  • Improved regulation of ventilation and acid–base balance

  • Greater awareness of the link between breathing, posture, emotion, and symptoms

  • Training of more efficient, reflexive breathing patterns that support autonomic regulation

Clinical Applications: 

Capnography Breathing Assessment is used to support:

  • Dysfunctional breathing patterns associated with chronic pain, stress, anxiety, or panic

  • Chronic neck, shoulder, and chest wall tension influenced by altered breathing mechanics

  • Headaches, dizziness, and non-specific breathlessness related to over-breathing

  • Persistent fatigue or “air hunger” not explained by structural cardiopulmonary disease

  • Performance optimization for athletes, vocalists, and performers who rely on precise breath control

  • Education and self-regulation strategies in chronic pain and nervous system dysregulation

Procedure

During the assessment, a small nasal cannula is placed under the nose and connected to the CapnoTrainer GO. The device records ETCO₂ levels, respiratory rate, and waveform shape while the patient rests and then explores gentle postural, cognitive, and movement-based “challenges.” The therapist correlates changes in the capnogram with reported sensations and symptoms, then guides targeted breathing and positional strategies. This information is used to design a personalized home program that supports more stable breathing behavior in daily life.

Scientific Basis

Capnography is an established method for continuous monitoring of CO₂ in exhaled air and is widely used in anesthesia, critical care, and emergency medicine to assess ventilation and respiratory status. End-tidal CO₂ reflects the partial pressure of CO₂ in alveolar gas and provides insight into ventilation, circulation, and metabolic activity. In a rehabilitative context, educational capnographs such as the CapnoTrainer GO extend this technology to evaluating breathing as behavior, helping patients recognize and modify patterns that contribute to symptoms and reduced performance. Wikipedia+4KNOSIS+4BREATHE WELL PHYSIO+4 

At KNOSIS, Capnography Breathing Assessment is integrated into whole-body treatment plans, aligning breathing chemistry and mechanics with postural control, movement training, and nervous system regulation to support both symptom relief and long-term resilience. 

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