| Muscles of respiration | |
|---|---|
 Muscles of the body's respiration | |
| Identifiers | |
| MeSH | D012132 |
| Anatomical terminology | |
The muscles of respiration are the muscles that contribute to inhalation and exhalation, by aiding in the expansion and contraction of the thoracic cavity. The diaphragm and, to a lesser extent, the intercostal muscles drive respiration during quiet breathing. The elasticity of these muscles is crucial to the health of the respiratory system and to maximize its functional capabilities.