The diaphragm is a muscle that separates the thoracic cavity from the abdominal cavity. The importance of a healthy diaphragm as it relates to breathing may be obvious, but it’s also well-documented that this muscle plays multiple distinct physiological roles.

As an aside, a sizeable percentage of the population does not breathe with their diaphragm. Instead, many are vertical breathers, meaning they use accessory muscles in the chest, neck and shoulders to inhale. This is a dysfunctional breathing pattern which leads to a multitude of negative health and physiological changes.

While one of the primary jobs of the diaphragm is to drive proper breathing, it also contributes significantly to non-ventilatory functions, such as postural stability. According to Kocjan, et al., ‘There is also a general consensus that an increase in intra-abdominal pressure (IAP) stabilizes the spine. The diaphragm cannot move the trunk voluntarily, but it’s contraction contributes to trunk (spinal) stability via an increase of pressure in the abdominal cavity.’

Insight

As we seek to improve overall equilibrium, improving our postural stability (therefore, improving the function of our diaphragm) is paramount. In future posts we will uncover ways to improve diaphragm function through methods such as performance breathing.

Reference

Kocjan J, et al. Network of breathing. Multifunctional role of the diaphragm; a review. Adv. Respir. Med. 2017; 85: 224-232.