Diaphragm Fatigue Does Not Impact Breathing Mechanics or Function in People with Chronic Low Back Pain

The lack of differences suggests that the diaphragm, regardless of its fatigue status as a spinal stabilizer, will not relinquish or weaken its function as a breathing muscle, though it may be less effective as a spinal stabilizer. Individuals with chronic or recurrent low back pain might therefore be more susceptible to subsequent pain flare-ups than non-symptomatic individuals. A potential clinical implication of these findings is that incorporating diaphragmatic breathing exercises to enhance diaphragm function may offer an effective treatment option for patients with CLBP.