Diaphragm Dysfunctions and Their Treatment: Neural Therapy and Manual Medicine as Effective…
Authors:
- Fatma Gülçin URAL NAZLIKUL1,2,3 and Hüseyin NAZLIKUL 3,4,5,6
Abstract:
Diaphragm dysfunctions are a medical topic whose importance is often underestimated. They present with respiratory and systemic symptoms such as dyspnea, sleep disorders, chronic fatigue, gastroesophageal reflux, and even heart failure. Since the diaphragm, the primary respiratory muscle, plays a very important role in maintaining trunk stability and regulating intra-abdominal pressure, its dysfunction can have profound effects on overall health.
Causes and Pathophysiology of Diaphragm Dysfunctions: Diaphragm dysfunctions can arise from various factors, including:
- Chronic stress, which increases tension in the diaphragm and surrounding fascia,
- Myofascial trigger points, which disrupt muscle contraction and mobility,
- Scar tissue, which limits fascial mobility,
- Trauma, surgery, or mechanical stress that can irritate or impair the function of the phrenic nerve.
The phrenic nerve, which innervates the diaphragm, plays a very important role in the functionality of this muscle. Irritation or damage to the phrenic nerve can significantly impair diaphragm movement, leading not only to breathing difficulty but also to dysregulation of the autonomic nervous system and organ functions.
Treatment Approaches: The combination of neural therapy and manual medicine has proven particularly effective in treating diaphragm dysfunctions. Injections targeting myofascial trigger points and segmental therapy can support diaphragm function. Manual diagnosis plays a critical role in identifying segmental dysfunctions and fascial adhesions.