Motor System Review

Front

What are alpha motor neurons?

Back

Alpha motor neurons are neurons that directly innervate extrafusal muscle fibers, playing a crucial role in muscle contraction.

Front

What is the primary function of muscle spindles?

Back

Muscle spindles detect changes in muscle length and contribute to proprioception.

Front

What are the three types of proprioceptors?

Back

Muscle spindles, Golgi tendon organs, and joint receptors.

Front

Where do motor signals typically begin?

Back

Motor signals typically begin in upper motor neurons located in the motor cortex, not the thalamus.

Front

What is proprioception?

Back

Proprioception is the body's ability to sense its position and movement in space.

Front

What role do Golgi tendon organs play?

Back

Golgi tendon organs detect changes in muscle tension and help prevent excessive force during muscle contraction.

Front

What is the difference between extrafusal and intrafusal muscle fibers?

Back

Extrafusal muscle fibers are responsible for muscle contraction, while intrafusal fibers are part of muscle spindles and detect stretch.

Front

How do muscle spindles contribute to reflex actions?

Back

Muscle spindles provide sensory feedback to the spinal cord, facilitating reflex actions such as the stretch reflex.

Front

What is the function of joint receptors?

Back

Joint receptors provide information about joint position and movement, contributing to proprioception.

Front

What is the significance of alpha motor neuron innervation?

Back

Alpha motor neuron innervation is essential for voluntary muscle control and movement.