Contraction of the diaphragm: Somatic?

[justadream]

The contraction of the diaphragm involves skeletal muscle (I think). This would indicate it is under somatic control.

But this contraction is also associated with breathing (autonomic).

So which is it?

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[Cawolf]

Yes, the diaphragm is skeletal muscle that is under autonomic and voluntary control.

That is apparent from that fact that you aren't consciously thinking about breathing, but you can hold your breath.

Respiratory control centers in the pons and medulla regulate the aspects of autonomic control, while conscious control can be taken.

 

[justadream]

@Cawolf

So is the diaphragm the only exception to the "skeletal muscle is only under somatic control"?

 

[Cawolf]

No. There are a lot of muscles controlled unconsciously by our lower/mid brain that we can use as we want.

Think about the muscles that support our abdomen, keep our posture, work in balance, blinking, and many more "automated" processes.

Skeletal muscle is commonly innervated by a nerve with autonomic/somatic control, but smooth muscle is innervated by purely autonomic nerves.