Most people know the diaphragm simply as a breathing muscle. But in clinical practice, it is far more than that.
1What does the diaphragm do?
- It is the main driving force of lymph flow. The pressure difference created with every breath sets the lymph in motion.
- It supports venous return. It plays a role in returning blood from the lower limbs to the heart.
- It affects the mobility of the internal organs. The liver, stomach and intestines shift position with every breath.
- It sends signals to the nervous system. Deep, free breathing sends a message of “safety”; shallow, constricted breathing sends a message of “stress”.
2Why does an osteopath look at the diaphragm?
The diaphragm is directly connected to the neck (via the phrenic nerve), the ribs, the spine and the pelvic floor. When its movement is restricted, a symptom may arise at any link in this chain — neck pain, jaw tension, low back tension or unexplained fatigue.
We look not at where the pain is, but at where it comes from.
— Dr. Elfana Suleymanova, Center Director · Internist and osteopathic physician