Muscle Work Mechanism, From Contraction To Relaxation That Moves The Body

Illustration of the muscle work mechanism (Pixabay/StockSnap)

YOGYAKARTA - Muscle work mechanism is an important process that allows us to move, talk, and maintain posture. Without this mechanism, these activities cannot be carried out. The muscle work mechanism occurs automatically and is coordinated, so that movements can be carried out efficiently without us realizing it.

Muscles work in a unique way, namely contracting and relaxing in very fast time. This process involves a series of chemical reactions and electrical pulses from the nervous system. The following will be discussed in the process of muscle work mechanisms, ranging from neural stimulates, neurotransmitters release, to relaxation.

Muscle work mechanism begins when the muscles receive stimulation from the nervous system. The motor nervous system sends signals to carry out certain movements, both consciously and reflexively. For example, when your hand touches a hot object, a reflex pulling your hand occurs without us thinking about it. Here's the explanation of the stages.

Each movement starts from an electric signal sent by a motor nerve to the muscle. This signal is sent to the ends of the nerve fibers that stick to the muscles. Rangsangan can be aware, such as walking, or reflexs such as avoiding danger.

When the electric signal reaches the nerve end, the so-called acetylcoline chemical is released. Astylcholine functions as a carrier of the message from nerves to muscles. This substance is released in a small gap (synaps) between nerves and muscles to activate muscle cells.

Astylcolin triggers changes in muscle cell membranes, so calcium ions can enter muscle cells. This calcium ion is the main trigger for muscle contraction. If you lack calcium, muscles cannot contract perfectly and can cause symptoms of cramps or weakness easily.

Ion calcium functions to connect two proteins in muscles, namely actin and myosine. The calcium ion helps myosine pull the actin so that muscle fibers stagnate or contract. This event occurs very quickly and repeatedly, resulting in movement without a break.

In order for contraction to occur, muscle cells require energy. This energy comes from ATP breaking, molecule storing energy in cells. When ATP is broken down, energy is released to support interactions between actins and myosins.

After the contraction is complete, the calcium ion returns to its storage area, and the acetylcoline is deactivated. This causes actins and myosins to separate, so the muscles return to their original length (relaxation). This relaxation makes the muscles ready to move again.

Muscle work is influenced by several factors such as supply of oxygen, nutrients, and healthy conditions. Sufficient oxygen supply is very important because muscles need oxygen to produce energy. If the body lacks oxygen, muscle work can be hampered and cause fatigue.

In addition, physical conditions and external factors such as temperature also play a role in muscle performance. Too cold temperatures can make muscles stiff and difficult to move, while warm temperatures help muscles relax and are flexible. Rest and hydration also affect muscle work, because lack of fluids and lack of sleep can slow muscle recovery after activities.

To keep muscle work optimal, increase consumption of high protein foods, drink enough water, and exercise regularly. If you experience disorders such as cramps or prolonged muscle fatigue, immediately consult a doctor. Understanding the work mechanism of the muscles helps to care for the body better.