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Definition

noun

A reflex contraction of a muscle when the muscle proprioceptors (e.g. muscle spindles) are stimulated. Its function is to maintain erect and proper body posture.

Supplement

Example of instances when this reflex occurs is when a person is standing in upright position then begins to lean on one side. The postural muscles closely connected to the vertebral column on the side will stretch resulting in the muscle spindles causing those muscles to contract to correct posture.

Synonyms:

• myotatic reflex
• stretch reflex
• muscular reflex