The dome-shaped sheet of muscle that separates the chest from the abdomen. It is attached to the spine, ribs, and sternum (breastbone) and plays an important role in breathing. There are openings in the diaphragm for the oesophagus and major nerves and blood vessels. To inhale, the diaphragm’s muscle fibres contract, pulling the whole diaphragm downwards and drawing air into the lungs. (See also breathing.)
Diaphragm muscle |
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