Anatomic connections of the diaphragm: influence of respiration on the body system

Abstract

The article explains the scientific reasons for the diaphragm muscle being an important crossroads for information involving the entire body. The diaphragm muscle extends from the trigeminal system to the pelvic floor, passing from the thoracic diaphragm to the floor of the mouth. Like many structures in the human body, the diaphragm muscle has more than one function, and has links throughout the body, and provides the network necessary for breathing. To assess and treat this muscle effectively, it is necessary to be aware of its anatomic, fascial, and neurologic complexity in the control of breathing. The patient is never a symptom localized, but a system that adapts to a corporeal dysfunction.

Keywords: diaphragm; fascia; pelvis; phrenic nerve; vagus nerve.

Figure 1

The area above the diaphragm: the dotted line for the support of heart 3: inferior vena cava; 10: esophagus; 9: aorta; 8: tendinous center; 5: lumbar area. AA VV, Anatomia dell’uomo, 4 ed, Edi.ermes, Milano [Several authors, Human Anatomy, Fourth Edition, edition EdiErmes]. www.eenet.it.

Figure 2

The sub-diaphragmatic area: 2: tendinous center or phrenic; 16: inferior vena cava; 3: esophagus; 5: aortic orifice; 15: medial pillar; 14: intermediate pillar; 13: pillar lateral; 6: pillar arcuate medial; 7: lateral arcuate ligament; 10: quadratus lumborum muscle; 11: psoas major muscle. AA VV, Anatomia dell’uomo, 4 ed, Edi.ermes [Several authors, Human Anatomy, Fourth Edition, edition EdiErmes], Milano. www.eenet.it

Figure 3

The cervico-cranial area: 1: lesser occipital nerve or C2; 19: cranial nerve XII; 4: cranial nerve X; 5: cranial nerve XI; 17: geniohyoid muscle; 10: phrenic nerve. AA VV, Anatomia dell’uomo, 4 ed, Edi.ermes, [Several authors, Human Anatomy, Fourth Edition, edition EdiErmes], Milano. www.eenet.it.