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

Which reflex is characterized by a response that protects from excessive tension in ligaments?

1. Flexor Withdrawal Reflex

2. Golgi Tendon Reflex

3. Monosynaptic Reflex

4. Polysynaptic Reflex

The correct answer is: Golgi Tendon Reflex

The Golgi Tendon Reflex is indeed the correct answer as it plays a crucial role in protecting muscles and tendons by sensing and responding to changes in muscle tension. This reflex is activated when the tension in a muscle becomes excessive, which could potentially lead to injury if not regulated. Specifically, the Golgi tendon organs, which are located at the junction of muscles and tendons, detect this excessive tension. In response, the reflex inhibits the muscle's contraction, allowing for relaxation and preventing damage to the muscle and its associated tendons. This protective mechanism is vital during activities that require the muscle to generate force, ensuring that tensions remain within safe limits. The Golgi Tendon Reflex is a polysynaptic reflex, but it is specifically tailored to address tension rather than merely involving a simple stimulus-response pathway. Understanding this reflex is essential in the context of massage therapy, as it highlights the importance of applying appropriate pressure during treatment to avoid surpassing that threshold that triggers the reflex.