Diaphragm Paralysis

The Diaphragm  dome-shaped structure made up of muscle and connective tissue that separates the abdominal cavity from the chest cavity and functions in respiration. By movement of the diaphragm, air is either drawn into the lungs or forced out of them. Diaphragm Paralysis is when these muscles are limited in their ability to expand and contract.

The most common causes of Diaphragm Paralysis are trauma and surgery. Spinal injury can causes a paralysis in the diaphragm. Also nerve damage in surgery can cause a weakness or paralysis in the diaphragm muscles.

Lou Gehrig's Disease which causes damage to the nerves at some point causes weakness and paralysis in the diaphragm.