diafragmisk

Diafragmisk is an adjective used in anatomical and medical contexts to denote a relationship to the diaphragm, the muscular partition that separates the thoracic cavity from the abdominal cavity in most mammals. The term is derived from diafragma and the adjectival suffix -isk, and is similar in meaning to the English word diaphragmatic.

In humans, the diaphragm is the primary muscle of respiration. It is a dome-shaped musculotendinous sheet that attaches to the lower ribs, sternum, and lumbar spine, with a central tendon. When it contracts, the diaphragm moves downward and flattens, increasing the volume of the thoracic cavity and drawing air into the lungs; relaxation allows exhalation.

Clinical relevance: Conditions affecting the diaphragm include diaphragmatic hernia, diaphragmatic paralysis from phrenic nerve injury, and diaphragmatic eventration or fatigue. Diagnosis commonly uses imaging such as chest X-rays, ultrasound, or CT scans. Treatments may involve respiratory support, surgical repair of hernias or plication of a lax diaphragm, and, in select cases, diaphragmatic pacing.

In respiratory therapy and voice training, diaphragmatic or diafragmisk techniques emphasize diaphragmatic breathing to improve ventilation and vocal control.

See also: Diaphragm, Diaphragmatic breathing, Phrenic nerve.