PROPRIOCEPTIVELY INDUCED REFLEX PATTERNS

Abstract

Elec- tromyograms were recorded simultaneously in the biceps brachii, brachioradialis, triceps, a flexor carpi and an extensor carpi of anesthetized monkeys and cats. Various muscles were passively stretched by flexing or extending a joint or by applying a load to a tendon. The results reveal a biceps-extensor carpi-brachioradialis association, and a triceps-flexor carpi association. Stretch of any one muscle in such a complex, re-f lexly excites those associated with it. It is emphasized that the functional associations seen in these reflexes are the same as those aroused by cortical stimulation.