Provided are compositions and methods for improving diaphragm function in a patient. In some embodiments, the methods comprise administering to a patient or contacting a diaphragm skeletal muscle fiber with an effective amount of a skeletal muscle troponin activator or pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. Likewise, compositions and methods are also provided for increasing the function, activity, efficiency, sensitivity to calcium, or time to fatigue of skeletal muscle in the diaphragm. In some embodiments, the patient receiving such administration suffers from diaphragmatic atrophy.
