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Section A: Applied Anatomy and Physiology
5. Functions of muscles
Syllabus
• Function of muscles as agonists, antagonists, fixators and synergists
Function of Muscle
• The transformation of chemical energy into mechanical energy to:
– Generate force – Perform work – Produce movement
– Other functions include: stabilisation and generation of heat
Properties of Muscular Tissue
• Electrical excitability
• Contractility – Generates tension while pulling on its attachment points
• Extensibility– Ability to stretch without being damaged
• Elasticity – Ability to return to its original length and shape
Agonist
• The muscle that is directly responsible for the movement at a joint
• Also known as the prime mover
Antagonist
• A muscle that has an action opposite to that of an agonist (prime mover) and helps in the production of a co-ordinated movement
Synergist
• A muscle which contracts to enhance the efficiency of the prime mover by preventing any undesired movement
• It forms part of the co-operation or antagonist effect of the muscles which work together to ensure co-ordinated movement
• Also known as neutalisers
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