Osteopathy NDG low back pain thoracic pain neck pain diaphragm.

Posture, the Diaphragm and Spine Pain: Understanding the Osteopathic Connection.

Back pain is rarely isolated. In our osteopathy clinic in Notre-Dame-de-Grâce (NDG), we very often observe a clear connection between posture, breathing, the diaphragm, the psoas muscle and pain affecting the lower back, mid-back and neck.

Understanding these links helps explain why a low back pain problem may influence the shoulders, or why thoracic tension can maintain chronic neck pain. This article aims to explain these relationships in a clear and accessible way for patients living in NDG, Côte-Saint-Luc and Montreal West.

Low Back Pain, Thoracic Pain and Neck Pain: One Postural Chain.

The spine works as a global functional unit. When one area is restricted, the rest of the body adapts.

• Low back pain (lumbago) is often linked to the pelvis, the psoas muscle and the diaphragm

• Thoracic pain is frequently associated with breathing mechanics and prolonged sitting posture

• Neck pain is influenced by rib cage mobility, shoulder mechanics and respiratory patterns

In osteopathy, we focus on chains of tension rather than isolated painful areas.

The Central Role of the Diaphragm in Posture.

The diaphragm is the main muscle of respiration, but it is also a key component of postural stability.

Diaphragm in opening or closing dysfunction

• Closing dysfunction may lead to:

  • shallow or upper chest breathing

  • increased thoracic rigidity

  • overload of the neck and shoulders

• Opening dysfunction may lead to:

  • reduced postural tone

  • increased lumbar strain

  • pelvic instability

A dysfunctional breathing pattern can therefore maintain chronic low back pain, thoracic pain or neck pain.

The Diaphragm–Psoas Connection: A Key Factor in Chronic Low Back Pain.

The psoas muscle is closely connected to the diaphragm through anatomical and fascial attachments.

• Diaphragm dysfunction alters psoas tone

• A hypertonic psoas increases traction on the lumbar spine

• Low back pain persists despite local treatments

Clinical insight

When a patient presents an opening dysfunction, repeated psoas flexion work may sometimes help rebalance function — provided the diaphragm is also addressed. This explains why treating the psoas alone is often insufficient.

Sacroiliac Joint, Low Back Pain and Shoulder Symptoms.

The sacroiliac joint plays a fundamental role in force transmission between the trunk and the lower limbs.

• Sacroiliac dysfunction leads to lumbar compensation

• Lumbar compensation affects thoracic mobility

• Thoracic restriction increases shoulder load

As a result, shoulder pain may sometimes originate from the pelvis or sacroiliac joint rather than the shoulder itself.

The Pleural Dome and the Sternoclavicular Angle: An Overlooked Link.

Restrictions of the pleural dome directly influence:

• first rib mobility

• the sternoclavicular joint

• shoulder and neck mechanics

These restrictions may contribute to:

• neck pain

• shoulder pain

• sensations of chest tightness

Targeted osteopathic treatment often helps restore mobility in these key regions and improve overall comfort.

Why a Global Osteopathic Approach Matters.

Treating only the painful area often means addressing the symptom rather than the cause.

In our osteopathy clinic in NDG, the approach includes:

• global postural assessment

• breathing and diaphragm evaluation

• fascial chain analysis

• integration of pelvis, spine, rib cage and shoulders

This comprehensive view allows for longer-lasting results.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can poor posture cause low back pain?

Yes. Postural imbalance alters breathing mechanics, increases psoas tension and overloads the lumbar spine.

Can the diaphragm cause back pain?

Yes. A dysfunctional diaphragm directly influences lumbar, thoracic and cervical regions.

Why does my low back pain keep coming back?

Because the underlying cause is often not local. Without addressing breathing, pelvic mechanics and posture, pain may return.

Is the psoas always responsible for low back pain?

No, but it is frequently involved and must be evaluated in relation to the diaphragm and posture.

Can osteopathy help chronic back pain?

Yes, especially when pain is related to postural and respiratory compensations.

Osteopathy in NDG, Côte-Saint-Luc and Montreal West.

If you suffer from low back pain, thoracic pain or neck pain, a global osteopathic evaluation may make a significant difference.

Osteopathy clinic in Notre-Dame-de-Grâce (NDG) ,Conveniently located near Côte-Saint-Luc and Montreal West.

Book an appointment for a personalized and comprehensive osteopathic approach.