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Stretch Reflex Muscle Spindle — FRCA Primary MCQ

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EasyPhysiology - NeurophysiologyStretch Reflex Muscle SpindleFRCA Primary

Regarding the stretch reflex (myotatic reflex) the afferent limb involves which receptor?

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Correct answer: DMuscle spindle

The stretch reflex involves muscle spindle afferents (Ia fibres detecting rate of stretch / II fibres detecting static stretch). Stretching the muscle stimulates spindle afferents which monosynaptically excite alpha motor neurones to the same muscle causing contraction. The Golgi tendon organ mediates the inverse stretch reflex (protective relaxation).

Reference: Power Kam 2018 Principles of Physiology for the Anaesthetist