Breathing and Neck Muscles

Question 1

Diaphragm

Answer 1

A thin skeletal muscle that sits at the base of the chest and separates the abdomen from the chest. It contracts and flattens when you inhale. This creates a vacuum effect that pulls air into the lungs. When you exhale, the diaphragm relaxes and the air is pushed out of lungs.

Question 2

Intercostals

Answer 2

Intercostal muscles are muscle groups that are situated in between the ribs that create and move the chest wall. The muscles are broken down into three layers, and are primarily used to assist with the breathing process. The three layers are: external intercostal muscles, internal intercostal muscles, and the innermost intercostal muscles.

Question 3

Sternocleidomastoid

Answer 3

The sternocleidomastoid (SCM) muscle is located at the base of your skull on either side of your neck, behind your ears. On both sides of your neck, each muscle runs down the front of your neck and splits to attach to the top of your sternum and collarbone. The functions of this long, thick muscle are:

~rotating your head from side to side
~turning your neck to bring your ear to your shoulder
~bending your neck forward to bring your chin to your chest
~aiding in breathing and respiration

Question 4

Scalenes

Answer 4

The scalene muscles are three paired muscles (anterior, middle and posterior), located in the lateral aspect of the neck. Collectively, they form part of the floor of the posterior triangle of the neck. The scalenes act as accessory muscles of respiration, and perform flexion at the neck.