The Muscular System
Unlock This Video Now for FREE
This video is normally available to paying customers.
You may unlock this video for FREE. Enter your email address for instant access AND to receive ongoing updates and special discounts related to this topic.
Overview of the Muscular System
This guide explores the three main types of muscle tissue in the human body, their functions, and properties.
Smooth Muscle Tissue
Location: Found in the digestive, reproductive, circulatory, and urinary systems.
Function: Operates involuntarily, controlling various internal processes.
Cardiac Muscle Tissue
Location: Exclusive to the heart.
Function: Regulated by the sinoatrial node to maintain a heart rhythm, typically around 72 beats per minute in a resting, healthy person.
Characteristic: Exhibits autorhythmicity, a specific heart contraction pattern.
Skeletal Muscle Tissue
Function: Facilitates movement by attaching muscles to joints via tendons, controlled voluntarily by the somatic nervous system.
Roles: Includes locomotion, posture maintenance, and internal substance transportation like glycogen.
Properties of Muscles
Muscles generally possess four key properties:
- Elasticity - ability to stretch and return to original length
- Contractility - capability to shorten and generate force
- Electrical Excitability - responsiveness to stimulation
- Extensibility - capacity to be extended without damage