The diaphragm is not only a muscle of respiration, but it is also a pelvic and spinal stabilizer that influences spinal position. Natural human asymmetries, including asymmetrical differences of the diaphragm left and right side, contribute to patterns and positions of the pelvis as airflow into the thorax determines position and posture of the entire axial spine. Understanding human asymmetries, the diaphragm, patterned respiration, and chains of muscles as they direct position and posture will provide a framework for effective treatment and performance strategies. Without integrating the diaphragm to reposition, retrain and restore balanced function within an asymmetrical framework, many of our treatment approaches will be defeated by repetitive patho-mechanical compensation and an over reliance on accessory muscles of respiration. Learning Objectves: Learn that natural human asymmetries direct position and posture of the human body and we will never be able to make someone "symmetrical". Discuss the diaphragm and respiration as the critical elements for balanced position, alignment, and posture. The diaphragm is not only a muscle of respiration, but it is also a pelvic and spinal stabilizer that influences spinal position. Natural human asymmetries, including asymmetrical differences of the diaphragm left and right side, contribute to patterns and positions of the pelvis as airflow into the thorax determines position and posture of the entire axial spine. Understanding human asymmetries, the diaphragm, patterned respiration, and chains of muscles as they direct position and posture will provide a framework for effective treatment and performance strategies. Without integrating the diaphragm to reposition, retrain and restore balanced function within an asymmetrical framework, many of our treatment approaches will be defeated by repetitive patho-mechanical compensation and an over reliance on accessory muscles of respiration. Learning Objectves: Describe how natural human asymmetries direct position and posture of the human body and we will never be able to make someone "symmetrical". Discuss the diaphragm and respiration as the critical elements for balanced position, alignment, and posture.
