Tendon reflex
Tendon Reflex
Tendon reflex (pronunciation: /ˈtɛndən riˈflɛks/), also known as the stretch reflex, is a type of reflex that protects the muscle from overstretching or tearing. It is a fundamental part of the neuromuscular system and plays a crucial role in maintaining muscle tone and posture.
Etymology
The term "tendon reflex" is derived from the Latin words "tendo" meaning "stretch" and "reflexus" meaning "bent back". It refers to the reflexive action of a muscle contracting when its tendon is stretched.
Mechanism
The tendon reflex is initiated when the Golgi tendon organ, a type of proprioceptor located in the tendon, is activated by the stretching of the muscle. This sends a signal to the spinal cord via afferent nerve fibers, which in turn sends a signal back to the muscle causing it to contract. This reflexive action helps to protect the muscle from damage due to overstretching.
Related Terms
- Monosynaptic reflex: A type of reflex that involves only one synapse in the reflex arc.
- Polysynaptic reflex: A type of reflex that involves more than one synapse in the reflex arc.
- Reflex arc: The neural pathway that mediates a reflex action.
- Muscle spindle: A sensory receptor located in the muscle that detects changes in muscle length and velocity.
- Proprioception: The sense of the relative position of one's own parts of the body and strength of effort being employed in movement.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Tendon reflex
- Wikipedia's article - Tendon reflex
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