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Which of the following statements is true regarding the diaphragm's innervation?

  1. It is innervated by the musculocutaneous nerve

  2. It plays a primary role in shoulder movement

  3. It is crucial for respiration

  4. It is located in the upper extremity

The correct answer is: It is crucial for respiration

The diaphragm is a crucial muscle for respiration, as it is the primary muscle involved in inhalation. When contracting, the diaphragm moves downward, increasing the volume of the thoracic cavity and creating a negative pressure that draws air into the lungs. The diaphragm separates the thoracic cavity from the abdominal cavity and is vital for both effective breathing and maintaining proper respiratory mechanics. The other choices highlight misunderstandings about the diaphragm's functions and innervations: - The musculocutaneous nerve innervates the muscles of the upper arm and does not have any role in diaphragm innervation, which is primarily supplied by the phrenic nerve. - While shoulder movement is essential for upper extremity function, it is not related to the diaphragm's role, which is specifically respiratory. - The diaphragm is not located in the upper extremity; instead, it is situated at the base of the thoracic cavity, separating it from the abdominal cavity. Thus, the correct statement is that the diaphragm is crucial for respiration.