Muscles are the organs of motion and consist of bundles or fasciculi of parallel reddish contractile fibres. Toward the end of the muscle the fibres are so modified that they form a white cord or tendon of great density and strength. This tendon is attached to the bone so strongly that it is almost impossible to detach it. Sometimes a tendon spreads out like a flat sheet or thick membrane; it is then called fascia or aponeurosis. The fibres of a muscle have the power of contracting and relaxing under different stimuli sent to them by nerves. Muscular contractions cause them to move the bones, and consequently the limbs and body, in such direction as the brain and nerves command. Contraction is the special function of the muscles; all movements are performed by them. There are three kinds of muscle tissue: striated muscle, smooth muscle, and cardiac muscle. Most of the body' s muscle consists of striated muscle which is the skeletal muscle. It is also called voluntary muscle because it can be consciously controlled via the central nervous system.
Smooth muscle is the muscle of the internal organs and is called involuntary because it is not under voluntary control. Cardiac muscle is a special type of muscle found only in the heart. It consists of linked fibres that contract in unison producing the heartbeat. Research Muscles
The Probert Encyclopaedia was designed, edited and programed by
Matt and Leela Probert
Abbreviations
Medicine
Research Muscles
