Reciprocal innervation
Reciprocal Innervation (pronunciation: reh-suh-proh-kul in-er-vey-shun) is a fundamental concept in the field of neurophysiology and neuromuscular control.
Etymology
The term 'Reciprocal Innervation' is derived from the Latin words 'reciprocus' meaning 'returning the same way' and 'innervare' which means 'to supply with nerves'.
Definition
Reciprocal innervation refers to the process where the activation of one set of muscles (the agonist) is accompanied by the inhibition of the opposing set of muscles (the antagonist). This mechanism allows for smooth, coordinated movement and is essential for all voluntary motor actions.
Mechanism
The process of reciprocal innervation is facilitated by interneurons within the spinal cord. When a motor neuron sends a signal to contract a muscle, these interneurons simultaneously send inhibitory signals to the antagonist muscle group, causing it to relax. This is achieved through the release of inhibitory neurotransmitters such as glycine and GABA.
Clinical Significance
Reciprocal innervation plays a crucial role in maintaining balance and coordination. Disorders affecting this process, such as spasticity or rigidity, can result in uncoordinated movements and impaired motor function. Understanding the principles of reciprocal innervation is also important in the field of physical therapy and rehabilitation, where techniques are often designed to facilitate normal patterns of reciprocal innervation and movement.
Related Terms
- Sherrington's Law of Reciprocal Innervation: A principle named after the British physiologist Charles Sherrington, stating that increased activity in a muscle is accompanied by a decrease in activity in the opposing muscle.
- Reciprocal inhibition: A similar concept to reciprocal innervation, but specifically refers to the inhibition of antagonist muscles during agonist contraction.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Reciprocal innervation
- Wikipedia's article - Reciprocal innervation
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