Diaphragm
Core
Deep muscle — it lies under other muscles. X-ray makes the muscles over it see-through.
- Origin
- Xiphoid process, inner surfaces of the lower six ribs and the upper lumbar vertebrae
- Insertion
- Central tendon
- Action
- Contracts and flattens to draw air into the lungs; the main muscle of breathing in
- Nerve supply
- Phrenic nerve (C3–C5)
The dome-shaped sheet separating the chest from the abdomen. When it contracts it flattens and pulls air into the lungs; it also helps raise pressure inside the abdomen when you brace the trunk.
Diaphragm anatomy page →