On average, we breathe between 14,000 and 21,000 per day. (Surprising, huh?) The major muscle responsible for these actions, the diaphragm, is located from the middle to lower ribcage. Along with its front, side and back attachments, a common tendon is then fastened to the lower spine.

When functioning properly, our diaphragm serves dual roles: It acts as both the primary muscle for breathing and the major stabilizer for the spine, pelvis and shoulders. With correct breathing, the diaphragm contracts fully and pushes down on the abdominal contents. As you feel this abdominal contraction, you are engaging the deep pelvic floor and stabilizing muscles of the spine. This creates a “canister” effect which supports your spine … and leads to healthy posture!

Here are few issues with faulty breathing mechanics, secondary to poor posture:

• Chronic pain due to over-activity of the chest, neck, shoulder and back muscles

• Fatigue, asthma and shortness of breath

• Muscle tension headaches

• Bowel, bladder and pelvic floor problems

• Uncontrolled stress levels

• Poor exercise performance and tolerance

As we age and the thoracic spine stiffens, breathing compensations begin. Breathing is one of the most essential innate movement patterns in the treatment of not only spinal stability and myoskeletal pain, but chronic fatigue and anxiety as well.