Tonic reflex is spelled with the IPA phonetic transcription /ˈtɒnɪk ˈriːflɛks/. The word "tonic" is pronounced with the first syllable stressed and the final "c" being silent. The "reflex" syllable is pronounced with stress on the second syllable and ending with an "x" sound. A tonic reflex refers to an involuntary response of the muscles caused by a stimulus. This can be a muscle contraction or relaxation depending on the stimulus. The correct spelling of this word is essential in the medical field for proper communication and understanding.
Tonic reflex refers to a type of involuntary muscular response triggered by stimulation or changes in the body's position or balance. It is an automatic reaction that involves the contraction or relaxation of muscles to maintain or restore stability and equilibrium.
The tonic reflex is characterized by a sustained contraction or elongation of specific muscles that work together to oppose the change in body position. It helps to counteract forces acting on the body, facilitating a steady posture and preventing falls or loss of balance. The reflex operates continuously, adjusting muscle tone and tension to counteract external and internal stimuli.
This reflex is regulated by the nervous system, particularly involving feedback pathways between the muscles, spinal cord, and the brain. The tonic reflex plays a crucial role in normal coordination, maintaining an upright posture, and enabling smooth movements during various activities.
Examples of tonic reflexes include the stretch reflex, where stretches in a muscle lead to an automatic contraction of that muscle and its antagonist, and the righting reflex, which helps to maintain an upright position by adjusting one's head and body in response to tilting or changes in gravity.
Overall, the tonic reflex is an essential mechanism that contributes to the body's overall balance and stability, allowing for coordinated movements and adaptation to the external environment.
The occurrence of an appreciable interval after the production of a reflex before relaxation; see Gordon's symptom.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "tonic" comes from the Latin word "tonicus", which is derived from the Greek word "tonikos", meaning "pertaining to tension or tone". It is related to the Greek word "tonos", meaning "tension".
The word "reflex" comes from the Latin word "reflexus", which is derived from the prefix "re-" meaning "back" and the verb "flectere", meaning "to bend". It is related to the Latin word "reflexio", meaning "a bending back".
So, the term "tonic reflex" combines the word "tonic" to indicate tension or tone, and "reflex" to indicate a response or action caused by a stimulus. Together, "tonic reflex" refers to a reflex action or response that is related to maintaining tension or tone in muscles.