Stretch Reflex (Myotatic Reflex)

Author: Scott A. Sheffield MS

Last update:

The myotatic stretch reflex (MSR) is an involuntary muscle contraction that occurs in response to stretching of muscle tissue.

image descriptionPatellar tendon tap (Stretch receptor stimulated):

image description1A afferent (sensory) neuron (Impulse carried to spinal cord):

image descriptionInterneuron (Inhibitory impulse carried to flexor neuron):

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image descriptionAlpha motor neuron (Excitatory impulse carried to extensor neuron):

image descriptionExtensor muscles respond (Quadriceps contract):

Overview:

Test yourself image showing Myotatic Reflex of the muscle, the image contains (1A afferent neuron, Flexor motor neuron, Extensor motor neuron) all numbered without answers
Test yourself image showing Myotatic Reflex of the muscle, the image contains (1A afferent neuron, Flexor motor neuron, Extensor motor neuron) all numbered with answers below
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