Muscle Spindles and Reflex Actions

Vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts related to muscle spindles, proprioception, and various reflexes.

Muscle spindles

Stretch receptors in the body that act as proprioceptors measuring the stretch of muscles.

Proprioception

The body's ability to sense its position, movement, and equilibrium.

Tendon reflex

A reflex action in which a muscle contracts in response to a stretch stimulus on its tendon.

Reciprocal inhibition

A process in which one muscle is inhibited while its antagonist is activated during a reflex.

Flexor (withdrawal) reflex

A protective reflex that causes the withdrawal of a limb from a harmful stimulus.

Polysynaptic reflex arc

A reflex pathway that involves multiple synapses and interneurons, often used in withdrawal reflexes.

Crossed extension reflex

A reflex that stabilizes the body when one limb withdraws, involving extension of the opposite limb.

Golgi tendon organs

Proprioceptors located in tendons that detect tension and prevent excessive force on muscles.

Flaccid paralysis

A type of paralysis where the muscles are weak and limp due to nerve damage.

Spastic paralysis

A type of paralysis characterized by stiff and rigid muscles due to uncontrolled muscle contractions.

Quadriplegia

Paralysis of all four limbs, typically resulting from spinal cord damage at a high level.

Paraplegia

Paralysis of the lower half of the body, affecting the legs, often due to spinal cord injury at a lower level.

Hemiplegia

Paralysis of one side of the body, commonly resulting from a stroke.

Paresis

Partial loss of muscle strength, or weakness, often due to nerve damage.

Ischemia

Insufficient blood flow to tissues, often leading to injury or dysfunction.

Apoptosis

Programmed cell death, an essential process for development and maintenance of health.