Muscular System

Question 1

Define:

Muscle

Answer 1

A soft tissue in the body that can contract to produce movement or maintain the position of parts of the body.

The muscle tissue is essential for all voluntary movements.

Question 2

Define:

Voluntary

Answer 2

Muscle movements that are under conscious control, such as those performed by skeletal muscles.

Walking is a voluntary action that requires coordination of multiple muscles.

Question 3

Define:

Involuntary

Answer 3

Muscle movements that occur without conscious control, typically involving smooth and cardiac muscles.

Breathing is an involuntary process controlled by the diaphragm and other muscles.

Question 4

Define:

Skeletal

Answer 4

Referring to the type of muscle that is attached to bones and is responsible for voluntary movements.

The skeletal muscles allow us to walk, run, and perform other physical activities.

Question 5

Define:

Smooth

Answer 5

Involuntary muscle found in the walls of internal organs and blood vessels, responsible for automatic movements.

The smooth muscles in the digestive tract help move food along the system.

Question 6

Define:

Cardiac

Answer 6

The type of involuntary muscle that makes up the heart, enabling it to pump blood throughout the body.

The cardiac muscle contracts rhythmically to maintain a steady heartbeat.

Question 7

Define:

Contraction

Answer 7

The process of a muscle shortening and generating tension, which results in movement or stabilization of body parts.

During exercise, the contraction of muscles is essential for lifting weights.

Question 8

Define:

Relaxation

Answer 8

The process where a muscle returns to its resting length after contraction, allowing for movement and recovery.

After a workout, muscle relaxation helps prevent stiffness and soreness.

Question 9

Define:

Tendon

Answer 9

A fibrous connective tissue that attaches muscle to bone, facilitating movement by transferring force from muscle contractions.

The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscle to the heel bone.

Question 10

Define:

Ligament

Answer 10

A tough band of connective tissue that connects bones to other bones at joints, providing stability and support.

The ACL is a ligament that helps stabilize the knee joint.

Question 11

Define:

Fiber

Answer 11

A single muscle cell, which can be classified into different types based on its contraction characteristics and metabolic properties.

Each muscle fiber can either be slow-twitch or fast-twitch, affecting endurance and strength.

Question 12

Define:

Myofibril

Answer 12

A long, thread-like structure within a muscle fiber that contains the contractile proteins, actin and myosin.

Muscle myofibrils are responsible for the striated appearance of skeletal muscle.

Question 13

Define:

Sarcomere

Answer 13

The basic functional unit of a muscle fiber, defined by the segment between two Z discs, responsible for muscle contraction.

Each sarcomere contracts in unison to produce overall muscle shortening.

Question 14

Define:

Actin

Answer 14

A protein that forms thin filaments in muscle fibers and plays a crucial role in muscle contraction.

Actin filaments interact with myosin to facilitate muscle contractions.

Question 15

Define:

Myosin

Answer 15

A protein that forms thick filaments in muscle fibers and is essential for muscle contraction through its interaction with actin.

Myosin heads bind to actin to generate force during muscle contraction.

Question 16

Define:

Striated

Answer 16

Referring to muscle tissue that has a banded appearance due to the arrangement of actin and myosin filaments, typical of skeletal and cardiac muscles.

Skeletal muscle is striated, which can be observed under a microscope.

Question 17

Define:

Fascia

Answer 17

A sheet of connective tissue that surrounds muscles, groups of muscles, blood vessels, and nerves, providing support and structure.

The fascia helps compartmentalize the muscles in the leg.

Question 18

Define:

Origin

Answer 18

The fixed attachment point of a muscle that does not move during contraction.

The origin of the biceps brachii is located on the shoulder blade.

Question 19

Define:

Insertion

Answer 19

The movable attachment point of a muscle that is pulled towards the origin during contraction.

The insertion of the biceps brachii is on the radius in the forearm.

Question 20

Define:

Flexion

Answer 20

The act of bending a joint to decrease the angle between two body parts.

Flexion of the elbow brings the forearm closer to the upper arm.

Question 21

Define:

Extension

Answer 21

The act of straightening a joint to increase the angle between two body parts.

Extension of the knee straightens the leg after a bend.

Question 22

Define:

Abduction

Answer 22

The movement of a limb away from the midline of the body.

Abduction of the arm occurs when you raise it sideways.

Question 23

Define:

Adduction

Answer 23

The movement of a limb toward the midline of the body.

Adduction of the thigh brings the leg closer to the body’s center.

Question 24

Define:

Rotation

Answer 24

The circular movement around an axis, allowing a limb to turn inward or outward.

Rotation of the head allows you to look over your shoulder.

Question 25

# Define: Isometric

Answer 25

A type of muscle contraction where the **muscle length does not change** while generating force. ## Footnote Holding a plank position involves *isometric* contractions of the core muscles.

Question 26

# Define: Isotonic

Answer 26

A type of muscle contraction where the **muscle changes length** while generating force, resulting in movement. ## Footnote *Isotonic* exercises like bicep curls involve lifting weights through a range of motion.

Question 27

# Define: Hypertrophy

Answer 27

The **increase in muscle size** due to an increase in the size of its fibers, often as a result of resistance training. ## Footnote Regular strength training can lead to *hypertrophy* of the muscles.

Question 28

# Define: Atrophy

Answer 28

The **decrease in muscle size or strength** due to disuse, aging, or disease. ## Footnote *Atrophy* can occur in a limb that has been immobilized for an extended period.

Question 29

# Define: Endurance

Answer 29

The ability of a muscle to **sustain prolonged activity over time** without fatigue. ## Footnote Training for a marathon improves cardiovascular *endurance*.

Question 30

# Define: Strength

Answer 30

The maximum amount of **force a muscle can exert in a single effort**. ## Footnote Weightlifting builds *strength* in major muscle groups.

Question 31

# Define: Power

Answer 31

The ability to exert a **maximal amount of force in the shortest possible time**, combining strength and speed. ## Footnote Sprinters require explosive *power* to achieve high speeds quickly.

Question 32

# Define: Tone

Answer 32

The **continuous and passive partial contraction of the muscles**, which helps maintain posture and readiness for action. ## Footnote Good muscle *tone* contributes to overall body stability.

Question 33

# Define: Fatigue

Answer 33

The **decline in ability of a muscle to generate force**, often resulting from prolonged activity or exertion. ## Footnote Muscle *fatigue* can occur after an intense workout session.

Question 34

# Define: Cramp

Answer 34

A **sudden, involuntary contraction of a muscle** that causes pain and discomfort. ## Footnote A *cramp* can occur during exercise, often due to dehydration or overuse.

Question 35

# Define: Spasm

Answer 35

An **involuntary contraction of a muscle**, which can cause pain and temporary dysfunction. ## Footnote A muscle *spasm* in the back can restrict movement and cause discomfort.

Question 36

# Define: Twitch

Answer 36

A **brief, involuntary contraction of a muscle fiber** or group of fibers, often resulting in a quick movement. ## Footnote A *twitch* can be observed when a muscle responds to a sudden stimulus.

Question 37

# Define: Sprain

Answer 37

An **injury to a ligament** caused by overstretching or tearing, often resulting in pain and swelling. ## Footnote A *sprain* of the ankle can occur during sports activities.

Question 38

# Define: Strain

Answer 38

An **injury to a muscle or tendon** caused by overstretching or tearing, leading to pain and limited mobility. ## Footnote A *strain* in the lower back can occur from lifting heavy objects improperly.

Question 39

# Define: Tear

Answer 39

A severe injury involving the **rupture of a muscle or tendon**, often resulting in significant pain and loss of function. ## Footnote A muscle *tear* can necessitate surgical intervention for proper healing.

Question 40

# Define: Dystrophy

Answer 40

A disorder characterized by the **progressive degeneration of muscle tissue**, often leading to weakness and loss of function. ## Footnote Muscular *dystrophy* affects the muscles' ability to function properly over time.

Question 41

# Define: Myopathy

Answer 41

A disease or disorder that affects the muscle fibers, resulting in **muscle weakness and dysfunction**. ## Footnote *Myopathy* can be caused by genetic factors or other underlying health conditions.

Question 42

# Define: Fibromyalgia

Answer 42

A chronic condition characterized by widespread **musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and tenderness** in localized areas. ## Footnote *Fibromyalgia* can significantly affect a person's quality of life and daily activities.

Question 43

# Define: Tendinitis

Answer 43

An **inflammation or irritation of a tendon**, often resulting from repetitive motion or overuse. ## Footnote *Tendinitis* commonly affects the elbow, shoulder, and knee.

Question 44

# Define: Rhabdomyolysis

Answer 44

A serious condition resulting from the breakdown of muscle tissue, leading to the **release of muscle fibers into the bloodstream**, which can harm the kidneys. ## Footnote *Rhabdomyolysis* can occur after intense exercise, trauma, or drug use.

Question 45

# Define: Compartment

Answer 45

A **space within the body that contains muscles, nerves, and blood vessels**, often surrounded by fascia, which can be affected by conditions like compartment syndrome. ## Footnote Increased pressure in a *compartment* can lead to serious complications if not treated.

Question 46

# Define: Syndrome

Answer 46

A collection of **signs and symptoms** that occur together and characterize a particular **abnormality or condition**. ## Footnote Carpal tunnel *syndrome* is characterized by pain and numbness in the hand.

Question 47

# Define: Biopsy

Answer 47

A medical procedure that involves the **removal of tissue from the body for examination** under a microscope to diagnose disease. ## Footnote A skin *biopsy* was performed to determine the nature of the lesion.

Question 48

# Define: Electromyography

Answer 48

A diagnostic procedure that measures the **electrical activity of muscles at rest and during contraction**. ## Footnote *Electromyography* can help diagnose nerve and muscle disorders.

Question 49

# Define: Rehabilitation

Answer 49

A process aimed at **restoring function and quality of life** to individuals following illness, injury, or surgery through therapy and exercise. ## Footnote *Rehabilitation* is crucial for recovery after joint surgery.

Question 50

# Define: Therapy

Answer 50

A **treatment** intended to **relieve or heal a disorder**, which can include physical therapy, occupational therapy, or other forms of rehabilitation. ## Footnote *Therapy* often involves exercises to improve mobility and strength.

Question 51

# Define: Massage

Answer 51

A manual manipulation of soft tissues in the body to **relieve tension, pain, and improve circulation**. ## Footnote *Massage* therapy can help alleviate muscle soreness after exercise.

Question 52

# Define: Exercise

Answer 52

**Physical activity** that is planned, structured, and repetitive for the purpose of **improving or maintaining physical fitness**. ## Footnote Regular *exercise* is essential for overall health and well-being.

Question 53

# Define: Warm-up

Answer 53

A series of exercises or activities performed before engaging in more intense physical activity to **prepare the body and reduce the risk of injury**. ## Footnote A proper *warm-up* helps increase blood flow to the muscles.

Question 54

# Define: Cool-down

Answer 54

A series of activities performed after exercise to gradually **lower the heart rate and relax the muscles**. ## Footnote A *cool-down* period is important to aid recovery after a workout.

Question 55

# Define: Aerobic

Answer 55

Describing any activity that **requires oxygen for energy production**, typically involving sustained, rhythmic movements. ## Footnote *Aerobic* exercises like running improve cardiovascular fitness.

Question 56

# Define: Anaerobic

Answer 56

Describing activities that **do not require oxygen for energy production**, often involving short bursts of high-intensity effort. ## Footnote *Anaerobic* exercises, such as sprinting, build muscle strength and power.

Question 57

# Define: Metabolism

Answer 57

The set of life-sustaining chemical reactions in organisms that **convert food into energy** for cellular processes. ## Footnote *Metabolism* plays a crucial role in maintaining energy balance in the body.

Question 58

# Define: Lactic

Answer 58

Referring to **lactic acid**, a **byproduct of anaerobic metabolism** that can accumulate in muscles during intense exercise, leading to fatigue. ## Footnote *Lactic* acid build-up can cause muscle soreness after a workout.

Question 59

# Define: Acid

Answer 59

A **substance with a pH less than 7**, capable of donating protons or accepting electrons in chemical reactions, often involved in metabolic processes. ## Footnote *Acid* levels in the body can affect various physiological functions.

Question 60

# Define: Oxygen

Answer 60

A **chemical element** essential for aerobic respiration, allowing cells to produce energy from glucose and fats. ## Footnote *Oxygen* is crucial for sustaining life and energy production in the body.

Question 61

# Define: Glucose

Answer 61

A **simple sugar** that is an important energy source for cells and a primary product of carbohydrate digestion. ## Footnote *Glucose* is transported in the bloodstream to provide energy to tissues.

Question 62

# Define: ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate)

Answer 62

The **primary energy carrier** in all living organisms, providing energy for many cellular processes, including muscle contractions. ## Footnote *ATP* is often referred to as the energy currency of the cell.

Question 63

# Define: Calcium

Answer 63

A **mineral** essential for various body functions, including **muscle contraction, nerve transmission, and bone health**. ## Footnote *Calcium* plays a critical role in muscle contraction and maintaining bone density.

Question 64

# Define: Neuromuscular

Answer 64

Referring to the **interactions between nerves and muscles**, crucial for muscle contraction and coordination of movement. ## Footnote *Neuromuscular* connections are vital for voluntary muscle control.

Question 65

# Define: Junction

Answer 65

The point where **two structures meet**, such as the connection between a nerve and a muscle fiber, known as the neuromuscular junction. ## Footnote The *junction* allows for the transmission of signals from nerves to muscles.

Question 66

# Define: Motor

Answer 66

Referring to the part of the nervous system that **controls voluntary muscle movements** through motor neurons. ## Footnote *Motor* neurons transmit signals from the brain to induce muscle contraction.

Question 67

# Define: Neuron

Answer 67

A **specialized cell** that transmits nerve impulses, forming the basic building block of the nervous system. ## Footnote A *neuron* carries signals from the brain to the muscles to initiate movement.

Question 68

# Define: Synapse

Answer 68

The **junction between two neurons** or **between a neuron and a muscle fiber**, where signals are transmitted through neurotransmitters. ## Footnote The *synapse* is critical for communication between nerve cells and muscles.

Question 69

# Define: Reflex

Answer 69

An **automatic and rapid response to a stimulus**, often mediated by the spinal cord without direct involvement of the brain. ## Footnote The knee-jerk reaction is a classic example of a *reflex* action.

Question 70

# Define: Signal

Answer 70

A **transmitted message** that conveys information, such as the electrical impulses sent from neurons to muscles. ## Footnote The *signal* from the brain initiates muscle contractions for movement.

Question 71

# Define: Posture

Answer 71

The position in which someone holds their body while **standing, sitting, or lying down, impacting balance and alignment**. ## Footnote Good *posture* is essential for preventing musculoskeletal injuries.

Question 72

# Define: Balance

Answer 72

The ability to **maintain the body's center of mass over its base of support**, crucial for stability during movement. ## Footnote *Balance* exercises help improve stability and coordination.

Question 73

# Define: Coordination

Answer 73

The ability to use **different parts of the body together smoothly** and efficiently during movement. ## Footnote *Coordination* is essential for athletic performance and daily activities.

Question 74

# Define: Movement

Answer 74

The act of **changing physical location or position**, involving the coordinated action of muscles and joints. ## Footnote *Movement* is fundamental to all physical activities and exercises.

Question 75

# Define: Agonist

Answer 75

A muscle that contracts to produce a specific movement, often called the **prime mover**. ## Footnote The biceps act as the *agonist* during elbow flexion.

Question 76

# Define: Antagonist

Answer 76

A **muscle that opposes the action of another muscle**, providing balance and control during movement. ## Footnote The triceps serve as the *antagonist* to the biceps during elbow flexion.

Question 77

# Define: Synergist

Answer 77

A **muscle** that assists the **agonist in performing a movement**, stabilizing the joint and enhancing efficiency. ## Footnote The brachialis acts as a *synergist* to the biceps during arm curls.

Question 78

# Define: Stabilizer

Answer 78

A **muscle** that helps **maintain a position or stabilize a joint during movement**, ensuring proper alignment. ## Footnote The rotator cuff muscles act as *stabilizers* of the shoulder joint.

Question 79

# Define: Deltoid

Answer 79

The **large triangular muscle covering the shoulder joint**, responsible for arm abduction and shoulder movement. ## Footnote The *deltoid* muscle is crucial for lifting the arm overhead.

Question 80

# Define: Pectoralis

Answer 80

A **pair of muscles located in the chest**, involved in the movement of the shoulder joint and arm. ## Footnote The *pectoralis* major is engaged during push-ups and bench presses.

Question 81

# Define: Biceps

Answer 81

A **muscle located in the upper arm**, responsible for flexing the elbow and rotating the forearm. ## Footnote The *biceps* muscle is prominently used in lifting and pulling motions.

Question 82

# Define: Triceps

Answer 82

A **muscle located at the back of the upper arm**, responsible for extending the elbow joint. ## Footnote The *triceps* muscle is engaged during movements like pushing and throwing.

Question 83

# Define: Quadriceps

Answer 83

A group of **four muscles located at the front of the thigh**, responsible for extending the knee joint. ## Footnote The *quadriceps* are vital for activities such as running and jumping.

Question 84

# Define: Hamstrings

Answer 84

A group of **three muscles located at the back of the thigh**, responsible for flexing the knee and extending the hip. ## Footnote The *hamstrings* play a crucial role in running and bending the leg.

Question 85

# Define: Gluteus

Answer 85

A group of **muscles located in the buttocks**, primarily responsible for hip extension, abduction, and rotation. ## Footnote The *gluteus* maximus is the largest muscle in the body and is key for movements like squatting.

Question 86

# Define: Abdominals

Answer 86

A group of **muscles located in the front of the abdomen**, responsible for flexing the spine and stabilizing the trunk. ## Footnote *Abdominals* are engaged during core exercises like sit-ups and planks.

Question 87

# Define: Obliques

Answer 87

**Muscles located on the sides of the abdomen**, involved in twisting and bending movements of the torso. ## Footnote The *obliques* are activated during exercises like Russian twists.

Question 88

# Define: Gastrocnemius

Answer 88

The **large calf muscle located at the back of the lower leg**, responsible for plantar flexion of the foot and flexion of the knee. ## Footnote The *gastrocnemius* is heavily used in activities like running and jumping.

Question 89

# Define: Soleus

Answer 89

A **muscle located beneath the gastrocnemius in the calf**, primarily responsible for plantar flexion of the foot. ## Footnote The *soleus* plays an essential role in walking and maintaining posture.

Question 90

# Define: Latissimus

Answer 90

The **broadest muscle of the back**, responsible for the movement of the shoulder and upper arm. ## Footnote The *latissimus* dorsi is engaged during pull-ups and rowing exercises.

Question 91

# Define: Dorsi

Answer 91

Referring to the **back or dorsal side of the body**, often used in anatomical terms to describe muscle locations and functions. ## Footnote The *dorsi* muscles are crucial for movements involving the back and shoulders.

Question 92

# Define: Trapezius

Answer 92

A **large muscle** located in the upper back, responsible for **moving, rotating, and stabilizing the shoulder blade**. ## Footnote The *trapezius* muscle is engaged during shoulder shrugs and various upper body exercises.

Question 93

# Define: Sternocleidomastoid

Answer 93

A **muscle in the neck** that helps rotate and flex the head, playing a key role in **head movement and posture**. ## Footnote The *sternocleidomastoid* is activated when looking over your shoulder.

Question 94

# Define: Diaphragm

Answer 94

A **dome-shaped muscle** that separates the chest cavity from the abdominal cavity, essential for the process of breathing. ## Footnote The *diaphragm* contracts and flattens during inhalation to allow air into the lungs.

Question 95

# Define: Surgery

Answer 95

A medical procedure involving the **physical manipulation of tissues to treat or diagnose a condition**, often requiring anesthesia. ## Footnote *Surgery* may be necessary to repair a torn ligament.

Question 96

# Define: Injection

Answer 96

A method of **delivering medication or vaccines** into the body using a syringe and needle. ## Footnote An *injection* can be used to administer a flu vaccine.

Question 97

# Define: Immobilization

Answer 97

The process of **restricting movement to a body part**, often using splints or casts to promote healing after an injury. ## Footnote *Immobilization* of a fractured bone is essential to allow proper healing.

Question 98

# Define: Recovery

Answer 98

The process of **regaining strength and function** after an injury, illness, or surgery, often involving rehabilitation. ## Footnote *Recovery* from surgery can take several weeks and requires physical therapy.