Biomechanics and Muscle Physiology - Important Vocabulary

Question 1

Excitation-contraction coupling

Answer 1

The term used to refer to the transfer of the action potential (created by the nervous system) to the muscle fibers that triggers muscle contraction

Question 2

Muscle fiber type

Answer 2

Muscle fibers are divided into 2 primary groups, Type I and Type II. Type I fibers are more fatigue resistant and are primarily used for endurance. Type II muscle fibers are more fatigable and are primarily used for rapid acceleration and force production.

Question 3

Myoelastic

Answer 3

Property of the vocal folds that accounts for those muscle and elastic properties of vocal fold tissue that contribute to vocal fold oscillation

Question 4

Neuromuscular Junction (NMJ)

Answer 4

The region where the nerve ending nearly approximates the muscle cell. It is where the action potential is transferred via an electrochemical signal (the neurotransmitter) from the nerve to contract muscle

Question 5

Phonation Threshold Pressure (PTP)

Answer 5

The minimum subglottal pressure required to initiate phonation

Question 6

Reversibility

Answer 6

An exercise physiology principle that refers to the detraining effect of skill loss and of adaptations that can occur with decreased use or training over time. Also known as deconditioning.