Nasal Specific Technique (NST)

Improve Breathing, Sinus Health & Nervous System Function

 

     If you feel like your nose is always blocked, you wake up tired, or you cannot take a full, easy breath, it is often not just a sinus issue.There can be underlying restriction in the structure of the skull that affects how you breathe, how you recover, and how your nervous system functions.

     Nasal Specific Technique is a specialized chiropractic procedure we offer at West Side Chiropractic in San Mateo to help restore balance in the skull, improve airflow, and support your nervous system.

     It’s quick, targeted, and can make a noticeable difference in how you breathe and feel.

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What is Nasal Specific Technique?

    Nasal Specific Technique (also known as Nasal Release Technique or Endonasal Technique) is a gentle, minimally invasive procedure that works with the bones of your skull to improve function from the inside out.

    It was originally developed in the 1930s and has been used for decades to help people dealing with chronic congestion, breathing issues, and neurological stress.

    The focus is on improving movement in the cranial bones, especially one called the sphenoid, which plays a key role in how your brain and body communicate.

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How It Works

    Your skull is made up of 22 bones that fit together like a puzzle. These bones are designed to move slightly, but things like:

• Sports impacts or injuries

• Concussions or falls

• Chronic mouth breathing

• Allergies and sinus inflammation

• Dental or orthodontic work

• Birth trauma

…can cause these bones to become restricted or misaligned.

    Nasal Specific Technique works by gently inserting a small balloon into specific nasal passages and inflating it for just 1–3 seconds.

    This quick pressure helps:

• Release tension in the cranial bones

• Open nasal airways

• Improve sinus drainage

• Support cerebrospinal fluid flow

• Increase blood flow and oxygen delivery to the brain

    Each visit typically takes about 15 minutes.

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What does it feel like? Be honest.

    It is quick, but you will definitely feel it.

    Most people describe:

• A short moment of strong pressure

• A popping or shifting sensation in the head

• Then a feeling of openness or easier breathing

    It can be uncomfortable for a few seconds, but it passes quickly. Many patients say they notice a difference in their breathing right after.

    You might feel a little sore for a day or two, similar to any adjustment.

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Who tends to benefit from this?

    This technique isn’t just for one type of patient - it can be a great fit for a wide range of people:

Athletes

• Improve airflow and breathing efficiency

• Support recovery after head impacts or collisions

• Enhance overall performance through better oxygenation

Chronic Allergy & Congestion Sufferers

• Open nasal passages

• Reduce sinus pressure

• Support better drainage and less inflammation

Sleep & Snoring Issues

• Mouth breathing

• Snoring

• Sleep apnea symptoms

• Waking up feeling unrested

Everyday Symptoms

• Headaches and migraines

• TMJ tension

• Brain fog or low energy

• Chronic neck tension

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Why this matters long term

    When your body cannot breathe well, it has to compensate.

    That affects:

• Your posture

• Your sleep quality

• Your recovery

• Your energy

• Your nervous system

    When we restore movement in the skull, we are not just helping your nose. We are helping your entire system work more efficiently.