Diaphragm - function, importance and influence on breathing

The diaphragm is the most important respiratory muscle. Find out how it works and why it is so important for breathing, posture and organ health.

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The diaphragm is a dome-shaped muscle tendon plate that separates the chest cavity from the abdominal cavity.

The diaphragm is the most important breathing muscle in the body and plays a central role in inhaling and exhaling, but also in stabilising the trunk.inhalation and exhalation, but also in stabilising the torso and supporting the digestive organs. With every breath, the diaphragm actively lowers, creating a vacuum in the lungs that allows air to flow in.

The diaphragm is closely connected to the vegetative nervous system and has an influence via the

phrenic nerve not only lung function, but also the vagus nerve, which regulates numerous internal organs. A well-functioning diaphragmatic breathing therefore has a positive effect on stress regulation, the diaphragm.strong data-start="1354" data-end="1382">heart rate variability, digestion and even on pain perception . Conversely, a permanently tense or blocked diaphragm can lead to respiratory problems, heartburn, back pain or an increased stress level contribute.

Targeted breathing exercises, physiotherapeutic mobilisation or osteopathic treatment can help to support the function of the diaphragm, especially in cases of chronic tension, respiratory diseases, Long-COVID or functional complaints in the upper abdomen.

Main functions of the diaphragm:

Primary respiratory muscle (inhalation by contraction)
Separation of the thoracic and abdominal cavities
Support of the trunk stability (v. a. in conjunction with pelvic floor & abdominal muscles)
Pressure regulation in the abdominal cavity (important for digestion, bowel movements, birth)
Influence on venous return and lymphatic flow

Dysfunctions & symptoms of a dysfunctional diaphragm:

Shallow chest breathing, shortness of breath
heartburn, feeling of pressure in the upper abdomen

Back pain, tension in the torso

Increased feeling of stress, restlessness, reduced resilience

As a result: Restricted organ function (e.g. digestion e.g. digestion, )

Therapy & supportive measures:

Breathing therapy, diaphragm mobilisation, Yoga, Singing, Wind instruments
Magnesium and Omega-3 for muscle relaxation and inflammation reduction
Osteopathic treatment for functional complaints
Osteopathic treatment for functional complaints
Training of diaphragmatic breathing to reduce stress and improve body awareness

Literature references

Bordoni, B. et al. (2013): The diaphragm: not just a respiratory muscle. J Multidiscip Healthc.
Kolar, P. et al. (2012): Postural function of the diaphragm in persons with and without chronic low back pain. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther.
Chaitow, L. (2014): The Respiratory System: Structure and Function in Normal and Dysfunctional Breathing.