BELLY OF MUSCLE Meaning and
Definition
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The term "belly of muscle" refers to the central, fleshy portion of a muscle. It is the thickest and most contractile part of the muscle, responsible for generating force and movement. Located between the origin (the fixed or less movable attachment point of a muscle) and the insertion (the movable attachment point of a muscle), the belly of muscle is made up of densely packed muscle fibers.
The belly of muscle is typically characterized by its cylindrical or elongated shape, varying in size and length depending on the specific muscle. It is encased in a tough connective tissue called the epimysium, which helps protect and anchor the muscle fibers. Within the belly of muscle, numerous smaller bundles of muscle fibers called fascicles are found, surrounded by a connective tissue layer known as the perimysium.
Functionally, the belly of muscle contracts and relaxes in response to nerve signals, allowing for movement and exertion of force. This contraction occurs when muscle fibers slide past each other, causing the muscle to shorten and generate tension. The degree of force generated by the belly of muscle depends on the number of activated muscle fibers and the frequency of nerve impulses received.
Overall, the belly of muscle plays a critical role in the proper functioning of the musculoskeletal system, enabling a wide range of movements and providing strength and stability to the body.
