Textbook Question
Why do the three parts of the trapezius muscle have three different actions?
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Ch. 9 The Muscular System
Amerman3rd EditionHuman Anatomy & PhysiologyISBN: 9780138247201, 9780138247928, 9780138201814
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Table of contents
- Ch. 1 Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology24
- Ch. 2 The Chemistry of Life37
- Ch. 3 The Cell54
- Ch. 4 Histology46
- Ch. 5 The Integumentary System30
- Ch. 6 Bones and Bone Tissue36
- Ch. 7 The Skeletal System40
- Ch. 8 Articulations19
- Ch. 9 The Muscular System35
- Ch. 10 Muscle Tissue and Physiology29
- Ch. 11 Introduction to the Nervous System and Nervous Tissue28
- Ch. 12 The Central Nervous System41
- Ch. 13 The Peripheral Nervous System41
- Ch. 14 The Autonomic Nervous System and Homeostasis31
- Ch. 15 The Special Senses39
- Ch. 16 The Endocrine System42
- Ch. 17 The Cardiovascular System I: The Heart28
- Ch. 18 The Cardiovascular System II: The Blood Vessels43
- Ch. 19 Blood32
- Ch. 20 The Lymphatic System and Immunity41
- Ch. 21 The Respiratory System27
- Ch. 22 The Digestive System27
- Ch. 23 Metabolism and Nutrition7
- Ch. 24 The Urinary System39
- Ch. 25 Fluid, Electrolyte, and Acid-Base Homeostasis39
- Ch. 26 The Reproductive System10
- Ch. 27 Development and Heredity5
Amerman3rd EditionHuman Anatomy & PhysiologyISBN: 9780138247201, 9780138247928, 9780138201814Not the one you use?Change textbook
Chapter 9, Problem L2.3
Why do you think that the muscles of the erector spinae and transversospinal muscle groups remain in a state of continual contraction when we are upright?
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the role of the erector spinae and transversospinal muscle groups: These muscles are part of the deep back muscles responsible for maintaining posture and stabilizing the spine during movement.
Recognize the concept of postural control: When the body is upright, gravity exerts a downward force on the spine. The erector spinae and transversospinal muscles counteract this force to prevent the spine from collapsing forward.
Learn about muscle tone: These muscles maintain a state of low-level contraction, known as muscle tone, which is essential for postural stability. Muscle tone allows the body to make small adjustments to maintain balance and alignment.
Explore the role of proprioception: Specialized sensory receptors in muscles and joints provide feedback to the nervous system about body position. This feedback helps regulate the continual contraction of these muscles to keep the body upright.
Understand the energy efficiency of postural muscles: These muscles are designed to sustain prolonged contraction with minimal fatigue, as they primarily rely on slow-twitch muscle fibers that are more resistant to fatigue and efficient for maintaining posture.
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Erector Spinae Muscles
The erector spinae is a group of muscles that run along the spine and are crucial for maintaining posture. These muscles help extend the vertebral column and keep the body upright against the force of gravity. Their continual contraction is essential for stabilizing the spine during various activities, preventing slouching, and allowing for controlled movements.
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Guided course
2:00
Introduction to Muscles and Muscle Tissue Example 1
Transversospinal Muscle Group
The transversospinal muscle group consists of muscles that connect the vertebrae and play a vital role in spinal stability and movement. These muscles assist in rotation and extension of the spine, contributing to overall postural control. Their ongoing contraction helps maintain alignment and balance, especially when the body is in an upright position.
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Postural Control
Postural control refers to the ability to maintain the body's position in space, whether stationary or during movement. It involves a complex interplay of sensory input, muscular responses, and neural mechanisms. The continual contraction of the erector spinae and transversospinal muscles is a key component of postural control, allowing individuals to remain upright and stable while performing daily activities.
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Related Practice
Textbook Question
Explain why strengthening the levator ani muscle may help improve bladder and bowel continence (voluntary control over urination and defecation).
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Textbook Question
The rectus femoris muscle originates from the anterior superior iliac spine and inserts into the tibial tuberosity. Predict its main actions with only this information.
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Textbook Question
Explain how the diaphragm muscle is able to increase the size of the thoracic cavity even though it doesn't insert into a bone.
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Textbook Question
Match the term with its description:
_____Brevis
_____Digitorum
_____Hallucis
_____Rectus
_____Flexor
_____Pronator
a. Related to the fingers/toes
b. Straight
c. Short
d. Decreases the angle between bones
e. Turns palm down
f. Related to the hallux (great toe)
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Textbook Question
Chris is training for his black belt in karate and is working on developing a stronger punch. Which muscles do you recommend that he strengthen to improve his punch? Explain.
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