Why the Diaphragm Muscle Deserves More Attention in Massage Therapy

When we think about massage therapy, muscles like the trapezius, hamstrings, or lower back often come to mind. But there’s one essential muscle that’s often overlooked—yet it plays a central role in our physical and emotional well-being: the diaphragm.

The diaphragm is a dome-shaped sheet of muscle that sits below your lungs and separates the thoracic (chest) cavity from the abdominal cavity. It’s the primary muscle used in breathing. Every time you inhale, the diaphragm contracts and flattens, creating space for your lungs to expand. When you exhale, it relaxes and rises, helping air move out of the lungs.

But the diaphragm does much more than just facilitate breathing—it’s deeply connected to posture, core stability, digestion, and even emotional stress.

More specifically, proper diaphragmatic breathing activates the parasympathetic nervous system, helping the body enter a rest-and-digest state. This kind of breathing can reduce anxiety, lower blood pressure, and improve overall relaxation—making massage more effective.

The diaphragm works closely with the pelvic floor, transverse abdominis, and multifidus to support the spine and maintain core stability. Tension or dysfunction in the diaphragm can lead to poor posture, back pain, and decreased athletic performance.

The diaphragm is sensitive to emotional stress. Many people unknowingly hold tension in their breathing pattern, often restricting their breath in response to anxiety or trauma. Releasing tension in the diaphragm can support emotional release and healing.

Because of its central location, the diaphragm interacts with numerous muscle groups and fascial planes. Restrictions here can cause a ripple effect, contributing to pain or tightness in the shoulders, neck, lower back, or hips.