College of Massage Therapists of British Columbia (CMTBC) Practice Exam

What do Golgi tendon organs primarily sense?

1. Muscle length

2. Muscle tension

3. Joint position

4. Pain response

The correct answer is: Muscle tension

Golgi tendon organs are specialized sensory receptors located at the junction of muscles and tendons. Their primary function is to sense muscle tension and provide feedback to the central nervous system about the changes in muscular force. When the muscle contracts and generates tension, the Golgi tendon organs are activated by the stretching of the tendon. These proprioceptors play a crucial role in protecting muscles and tendons from excessive tension that could lead to injury. They help regulate muscle contraction through a reflex mechanism known as the Golgi tendon reflex, which can inhibit muscle contraction when too much force is detected. This reflex contributes to maintaining optimal muscle function and coordination. In contrast, muscle length is primarily sensed by muscle spindles, joint position is associated with mechanoreceptors in the joints, and pain response is detected by nociceptors. Therefore, the focus of Golgi tendon organs on sensing muscle tension is what makes this answer the most appropriate.