Quick Answer
The Heimlich maneuver is effective against choking because it applies a sudden, forceful pressure to the abdomen, creating a rise in intrathoracic pressure that dislodges the obstructing object from the airway. This pressure is transmitted up the esophagus and into the throat, dislodging the object. The technique is critical in saving lives.
Anatomy and Physiology of Choking
The Heimlich maneuver targets the area just below the ribcage, where the diaphragm muscle is located. When the diaphragm contracts, it creates a pressure change in the thoracic cavity, which is transmitted up the esophagus and into the throat. This pressure wave can dislodge an obstructing object from the airway, even if it is lodged deep in the throat.
The Mechanics of the Heimlich Maneuver
To perform the Heimlich maneuver effectively, the rescuer must use a firm, but not too tight, grip on the person’s abdomen, with their fists closed and their hands positioned just below the ribcage. The rescuer should then apply a quick, upward thrust with a force of around 10-15 pounds per square inch (PSI) to the person’s abdomen. The thrust should be repeated 5-10 times, or until the object is dislodged from the airway.
Variations and Special Considerations
There are several variations of the Heimlich maneuver, including the abdominal thrusts for an infant and child, and the back blows method. For infants and young children, the rescuer should sit down and support the child’s head and neck in their lap, then push downward on the child’s upper abdomen with the heel of their hand. For adults and older children, the back blows method involves a series of 5-10 firm blows to the person’s back between the shoulder blades, followed by abdominal thrusts.
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