A Tae Kwon Do (TKD) master is applying downward pressure just above the elbow joint on an attacker who immediately collapses to the ground. The TKD master knows the elbow joint can bend inward toward the body but not in the opposite direction. Which of the following reflexes is applicable to this example?
A) Knife-clasp
B) Withdrawal
C) Myotatic
D) Inverse myotatic

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The inverse myotatic reflex is demonstrated in this example; when too much pressure is applied to the arm and tension reaches a certain level, the Golgi tendon "relaxes." Since the arm bar is being held, the only way the body can "reflex" is by going down toward the ground, making the attacker fall downward. In persons with spastic paralysis, the inverse myotatic reflex becomes hyperactive and produces what is called the clasp- knife reaction. The withdrawal reflex is stimulated by a damaging (nociceptive) stimulus and quickly moves the body part away from the offending stimulus, usually by flexing a limb part. The myotatic or stretch reflex controls muscle tone and helps maintain posture.

A Tae Kwon Do (TKD) Master Is Applying Downward Pressure