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[[file:Respiratory_system.svg|thumb|left]] '''Muscles of respiration''' are a group of muscles that contribute to the process of [[breathing]] by aiding in the expansion and contraction of the [[thoracic cavity]]. These muscles are essential for the [[respiratory system]] to function effectively, allowing for the exchange of [[oxygen]] and [[carbon dioxide]] in the [[lungs]].

==Primary Muscles of Respiration==
The primary muscles involved in respiration include the [[diaphragm]] and the [[intercostal muscles]].

===Diaphragm===
The [[diaphragm]] is a dome-shaped muscle that separates the [[thoracic cavity]] from the [[abdominal cavity]]. It is the most important muscle for [[inhalation]]. When the diaphragm contracts, it flattens, increasing the volume of the thoracic cavity and allowing air to be drawn into the lungs.

===Intercostal Muscles===
The [[intercostal muscles]] are located between the [[ribs]] and are divided into three groups: the [[external intercostal muscles]], the [[internal intercostal muscles]], and the [[innermost intercostal muscles]].

* '''External Intercostal Muscles''': These muscles aid in [[inhalation]] by elevating the ribs, which increases the volume of the thoracic cavity.
* '''Internal Intercostal Muscles''': These muscles assist in [[exhalation]] by depressing the ribs, which decreases the volume of the thoracic cavity.
* '''Innermost Intercostal Muscles''': These muscles function similarly to the internal intercostal muscles and assist in forced exhalation.

==Accessory Muscles of Respiration==
Accessory muscles are used during [[forced breathing]] or when the primary muscles are not sufficient. These include the [[sternocleidomastoid]], [[scalene muscles]], [[pectoralis minor]], and [[abdominal muscles]].

===Sternocleidomastoid===
The [[sternocleidomastoid]] muscle helps elevate the [[sternum]] during forced inhalation, increasing the volume of the thoracic cavity.

===Scalene Muscles===
The [[scalene muscles]] elevate the first and second ribs, aiding in the expansion of the thoracic cavity during deep inhalation.

===Pectoralis Minor===
The [[pectoralis minor]] muscle assists in elevating the ribs during forced inhalation.

===Abdominal Muscles===
The [[abdominal muscles]], including the [[rectus abdominis]], [[external oblique]], [[internal oblique]], and [[transversus abdominis]], play a role in forced exhalation by compressing the abdominal contents and pushing the diaphragm upward.

==Function in Respiration==
The coordinated action of these muscles allows for the efficient movement of air into and out of the lungs. During [[inhalation]], the primary muscles contract to increase the volume of the thoracic cavity, creating a negative pressure that draws air into the lungs. During [[exhalation]], the muscles relax, and the elastic recoil of the lungs and thoracic cavity expels air.

==Clinical Significance==
Dysfunction or weakness in the muscles of respiration can lead to [[respiratory disorders]] and difficulty in breathing. Conditions such as [[chronic obstructive pulmonary disease]] (COPD), [[asthma]], and [[neuromuscular diseases]] can affect the function of these muscles.

==See Also==
* [[Respiratory system]]
* [[Breathing]]
* [[Diaphragm]]
* [[Intercostal muscles]]
* [[Forced breathing]]

[[Category:Respiratory system]]
[[Category:Muscular system]]
[[Category:Human anatomy]]

{{Anatomy}}
{{medicine-stub}}

Muscles of respiration - Revision history

Prab: CSV import