ExPhys Ch. 7 Vocab Set 3

Front

Muscle balance

Back

When all muscles surrounding a joint have optimal length-tension relationships, allowing the joint to rest in a neutral position.

Front

Altered length-tension relationship

Back

When a muscle's resting length is too short or too long, reducing the amount of force it can produce.

Front

Reciprocal inhibition

Back

When an agonist receives a signal to contract, its functional antagonist also receives an inhibitory signal allowing it to lengthen.

Front

Altered reciprocal inhibition

Back

Occurs when an overactive agonist muscle decreases the neural drive to its functional antagonist.

Front

Muscle imbalance

Back

When muscles on each side of a joint have altered length-tension relationship.

Front

Neutral position

Back

The optimal resting position of a joint that allows it to function efficiently through its entire normal range of motion.

Front

Stretch-shortening cycle

Back

Loading of a muscle eccentrically to prepare it for a rapid concentric contraction.

Front

Series elastic component

Back

Springlike noncontractile component of muscle and tendon that stores elastic energy.

Front

Amortization phase

Back

The transition from eccentric loading to concentric unloading during the stretch-shortening cycle.

Front

Stretch reflex

Back

Neurological signal from the muscle spindle that causes a muscle to contract to prevent excessive lengthening.