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Spinal Reflex Modulation

Meaning

Spinal reflex modulation refers to the adaptive changes in the sensitivity and responsiveness of the neural circuits located within the spinal cord that govern involuntary motor responses, such as the stretch reflex. This modulation allows the central nervous system to fine-tune reflexive actions based on the immediate context, enhancing performance during rapid movements or preventing injury. The ability to modulate these reflexes is a key component of advanced motor control and coordination. Clinically, altered reflex modulation can be a sign of neurological dysfunction or a target for therapeutic intervention to improve muscle stiffness or spasticity.