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Motor Unit Firing Rate

Meaning

The Motor Unit Firing Rate is the precise frequency, typically measured in Hertz, at which an alpha motor neuron transmits action potentials to the muscle fibers it innervates, which directly determines the temporal summation of muscle twitches and the total muscular tension produced. A higher firing rate allows for a more complete, fused contraction, known as tetanus, resulting in greater instantaneous force output. This physiological parameter is a primary neurological determinant of muscular strength, independent of muscle size.