How Do You Spell MASS REFLEX?

1. Mass reflex is a term that refers to an involuntary and synchronous muscular reaction that occurs as a result of a specific stimulus. This reflex is characterized by the simultaneous contraction or relaxation of multiple muscles throughout the body. It is considered a protective response that serves to maintain balance and stability in response to a perceived threat or stimuli.

   The mass reflex is typically triggered by a strong or intense stimulus that causes a sudden and widespread response. For example, in certain neurological conditions, such as spinal cord injury or brain damage, a stimulus such as a sharp touch or pinprick can elicit a mass reflex response. In these cases, the reflex action is often exaggerated or abnormal due to the disruption of the normal neural pathways.

   The physiological basis of the mass reflex involves the transmission of sensory information from the peripheral nerves to the spinal cord, where it is processed and integrated with motor signals. The reflex is then initiated by the central nervous system, leading to the synchronized contraction or relaxation of muscles.

   Understanding the mass reflex is important in clinical settings as it can be indicative of underlying neurological conditions or injuries. By observing and assessing the presence and characteristics of a mass reflex, healthcare professionals can gain insights into the functioning and integrity of the nervous system. This can aid in diagnosis, treatment planning, and monitoring of patients with neurological disorders.

2. In cases of gross injury to the spinal cord, as the stage of reflex activity follows the primary flaccidity of the shock, a condition arises in which a strong stimulus to any part of one of the paralyzed limbs will be followed by contraction of the hip, knee, and ankle of the same side and often, when the stimulus is applied to the middle line of the body, of both sides, as well as of the abdominal wall, and even evacuation of the bladder and sweating over an area corresponding to the level of the lesion.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for MASS REFLEX

The term "mass reflex" does not have a specific etymology as it is a combination of two words: "mass" and "reflex".

1. "Mass" is derived from the Latin word "massa", meaning "lump" or "mass". It is commonly used to refer to a large amount or quantity of something.

2. "Reflex" is derived from the Latin word "reflexus", which means "bent back" or "turned back". In anatomy and physiology, a reflex refers to an involuntary response to a stimulus, usually involving a specific action or movement.

Therefore, "mass reflex" is a compound term combining "mass" and "reflex" to describe a collective or widespread involuntary response to a stimulus affecting a large group or system.