Muscles
Diaphragm
Primary muscle of inspiration; influences trunk and pelvic floor function.
Overview
Primary muscle of inspiration; influences trunk and pelvic floor function. Trigger points here are common in everyday and athletic populations and frequently contribute to the referred pain patterns described below.
Trigger point locations
Domed muscle inside the lower rib cage.
Referred pain pattern
Lower lateral ribs and shoulder tip; restricts breathing and trunk motion.
Palpation & testing
Palpate the muscle belly along its accessible course. Reproduction of the patient's familiar pain on palpation supports involvement.
Common causes
Chronic upper-chest breathing, asthma, stress, post-COVID restriction.
Self-care & clinical treatment
Diaphragmatic breathing drills, rib mobility. Clinically: manual diaphragm release.
Symptoms commonly linked
References
- • Travell & Simons — Myofascial Pain and Dysfunction