Q

QuestionAnatomy and Physiology

The simplest reflex; muscles contract in response to a stretch: This is known as the myotatic or stretch reflex. It helps maintain muscle tone and joint stability. An example of this reflex is the knee-jerk reflex (patellar reflex) tested during a physical examination. Prevents contracting muscles from applying tension to tendons: This is called the autogenic inhibition reflex. It helps regulate muscle contraction and prevent excessive tension on tendons. When a muscle contracts, Golgi tendon organs sense the tension and send signals to inhibit further contraction, thus protecting the tendon from damage. Response to a withdrawal reflex; causes extension of the opposite limb: This is called the crossed extensor reflex. It helps maintain balance and posture by extending the opposite limb when a limb is withdrawn from a painful or noxious stimulus. This reflex ensures that the body doesn't topple over during the withdrawal reflex. Removes a body part from a painful stimulus: This is called the withdrawal reflex or flexor reflex. It helps protect the body from harmful stimuli by causing rapid withdrawal of the affected body part. An example of this reflex is quickly pulling your hand away from a hot stove.