Northwestern Medicine Diaphragm Muscle Program
The Diaphragm Muscle Program at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, in collaboration with Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, is a leading initiative dedicated to the diagnosis, management and treatment of diaphragm muscle paralysis and related conditions.
About Us
By combining leading-edge research, advanced diagnostic tools and tailored treatment plans, our multidisciplinary team provides comprehensive care for patients with neuromuscular respiratory concerns.
Program highlights include:
- Comprehensive assessments: Using advanced diagnostics such as diaphragm muscle ultrasound, pulmonary function testing and electrodiagnostic studies, we assess diaphragm and phrenic nerve function with precision.
- Interdisciplinary care: Our team includes physiatrists, pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, cardiopulmonary physical therapists and surgeons who work collaboratively to design personalized management strategies. This comprehensive approach ensures holistic and patient-centered care.
- Tailored treatment options:
- Respiratory muscle training: Expert-led rehabilitation programs to strengthen the diaphragm and accessory respiratory muscles, mobilize secretions, and maintain chest wall compliance and health
- Management of sleep apnea due to neuromuscular respiratory weakness: Screening and management of sleep apnea, with options such as BiPAP and other advanced, noninvasive ventilation methods to improve quality of life
- Innovative surgical interventions: For patients who may benefit, options include diaphragm plication, phrenic nerve reconstruction and, in select cases, diaphragm pacing.
- Leading-edge research: Our program is at the forefront of advancing knowledge and treatment for diaphragm muscle dysfunction, leveraging a robust portfolio of preclinical and clinical research. This includes groundbreaking studies on phrenic neuropathy recovery trajectories, innovative noninvasive diagnostic techniques, and the development of leading-edge therapies such as wireless, resorbable implants to accelerate diaphragm muscle reinnervation. By exploring mechanisms like brain-derived neurotrophic factor signaling and integrating insights from conditions such as neuralgic amyotrophy, spinal cord injury and severe COVID-19, we aim to enhance patient outcomes and shape the future of respiratory care.
Meet The Team
At Canning Thoracic Institute, you have access to outstanding lung and chest care from a team committed to achieving superior results for you.
Conditions
Our program specializes in treating individuals with respiratory challenges caused by diaphragm dysfunction, including:
- Phrenic neuropathy: Nerve damage impairing diaphragm function from cardiothoracic surgery, neuralgic amyotrophy, trauma or idiopathic causes
- Spinal cord injury (SCI) with respiratory failure: Advanced care for people with SCI experiencing diaphragm paralysis and respiratory complications
- Diaphragm dysfunction: Unilateral or bilateral diaphragm muscle weakness leading to significant respiratory issues
- Central Alveolar Hypoventilation Syndrome
- Diaphragm Dysfunction
- Parsonage-Turner syndrome, also called brachial neuritis
- Phrenic Neuropathy
- Spinal cord injury (SCI) with respiratory failure
Tests
Our experts will assess how strong your diaphragm is and how well it works. Then they will talk with you about the results, your health and your goals.
- Computed Tomography (CT) Scan
- Six-minute walking test
- Spirometry
- Ultrasound
- X-ray
Treatment
We use a patient-centered and evidence-based approach to optimize outcomes. From physical therapy and respiratory rehabilitation to innovative surgical interventions, we customize treatment plans for each patient’s unique needs.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, please contact the Diaphragm Muscle Program at 312.695.1800.
Together, we advance the understanding and treatment of diaphragm muscle disorders, empowering patients to breathe and live better.
Locations & Contact Information
Northwestern Memorial Hospital
Nationally recognized in Pulmonology & Lung Surgery (No. 7)
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