Diaphragm

The dome-shaped muscle that plays a crucial role in respiration.

The diaphragm is a thin, dome-shaped muscle that separates the thoracic cavity from the abdominal cavity. It is the primary muscle of respiration and contributes to the inhalation and exhalation process. When the diaphragm contracts, it moves downward, creating a vacuum that draws air into the lungs.

Terminologia Anatomica

diaphragma

System

Respiratory system

Function

The diaphragm's main function is to facilitate breathing. When it contracts during inhalation, it lowers and increases the volume of the thoracic cavity, allowing air to flow into the lungs. This contraction reduces the pressure in the thoracic cavity compared to the atmospheric pressure outside, prompting air to fill the lungs. During exhalation, the diaphragm relaxes and moves upward, returning to its dome shape. This action helps push air out of the lungs. Additionally, the diaphragm assists in regulating the pressure in the abdominal cavity, which is essential for activities such as coughing, sneezing, and creating an effective vacuum for various bodily functions.

Location

The diaphragm is located at the base of the thoracic cavity, just above the abdominal cavity. It is anchored along the rib cage’s lower ribs, the sternum, and the vertebral column. The muscle extends laterally to the sides of the thorax, forming a dome-like shape that bulges upward into the thoracic cavity while simultaneously descending into the abdominal cavity during contraction. The diaphragm is innervated by the phrenic nerve, which originates from the spinal cord segments C3 to C5, establishing its connection to the nervous system.

Did You Know?

The diaphragm is the most important muscle for breathing, and its proper function is essential for life.
Further division into the left and right hemidiaphragms occurs, which allows for independent movement and compensation if one side is injured.
The diaphragm also has some role in emotional responses, as it can react to stress by changing breathing patterns.
The diaphragm is one of the largest muscles in the body, with an area of about 0.2 square meters in adults.
Athletes and trained singers often utilize diaphragm breathing techniques to improve their performance and lung capacity.