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Understanding Differences In Muscle Attachments

By Janelle Burnett


Muscle attachments define the direction, speed and strength of movement. The attachment could either be indirect or direct depending on the functions of the joint at that point. Each category of attachment is defined by different features that must be understood. The distinction requires more scrutiny since some can only be differentiated using microscopic instruments.

You will identify an indirect attachment by the fact that muscles seem to end before getting to the bone. There is a mass of tendons separating muscles and the bone. This region is populated by fibrous bands, theicks and sheets. These sheets are identified as aponeurosis and provide the strength required to complete the connection between the bones and muscles.

A direct attachment is characterized by an apparent connection between the bone and muscles. The bone seems to be the origin of all the muscles around without a tendon space in between. There are fibers in between, but they can only be seen using a microscope. These fibers are collagen in nature.

The essence of muscles is to facilitate movement of bones in relation to others that are attached. Muscles are characterized by a stationary origin and moving insertion. The region separating the insertion and the origin directs movement and is referred to as the belly. Different parts make movements depending on their functions. This necessitates the presence of different muscle in particular areas.

The intrinsic muscles stand out among the others because its origin and insertion are located within the belly of a muscle. They play a specific role on the part of the body where they are found. Action is a word used to describe the effect muscles have on movement in the body. Each group is connected to another leading to coordinated activity within the body.

Muscles are classified according to their functions and effect they have on body movement. Each category causes a particular effect to be felt because it works in a distinct way. The classes include agonist, synergist, antagonist and fixators.

The largest force in the human body is produced by agonist. They are thus described as prime movers. They allow basic movement to take place. They are assisted by synergist working in groups. One agonist requires more than one synergist. Synergists coordinate and restrict movement of agonist muscles. It is the synergists that offer direction to action in the body.

Antagonists oppose movement and force produced by agonist. They are responsible for determining the speed and range of movement in the body. This combination is referred to as an antagonistic pair because they work in opposite directions. This offers speed, coordination and direction to actions.

The last category is referred to as fixators because they are specific for bones movement. They ensures that bone movement is restricted to prevent straining or dislocations. These restrictions prevent use of excessive force that would damage other tissues of the body. The relationship between these muscles is mutual ensuring that the body achieves coordinated movement.

Muscle attachments vary depending on the part of the human body and the nature of movement required. Identifying the attachment helps a learner appreciate movement. A combination of different muscle types leads to successful movement and action on the body.




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