The diaphragm plays a major role in establishing core (lower back, abdominal and pelvic) stabilization by contributing to an increase in intra-abdominal pressure (IAP). Weakness or dysfunction of the diaphragm means REDUCED IAP which leads to poor core stability during movement. This forces your body to develop compensatory movement patterns in order to find stability elsewhere. Unfortunately, this will eventually result in injury to the lumbar spine, hips, or pelvis. Potential for foot, ankle, and knee injury too? You bet! So if you only breathe from your chest, and not your abdomen, you are an injury waiting to happen!
The best part is, once we re-establish proper breathing patterns, your body will be capable of generating the core stability needed for movement, and your pain will improve considerably. If you're experiencing long-term pain that hasn't responded favorably to previous treatment, it may be time to have your core function evaluated to see if you diaphragm is the limiting factor in preventing you from a full recovery.
