Definition
- A reflex is a stereotyped, involuntary motor response to an adequate stimulus, via the reflex arc.
- A spinal reflex is integrated in the spinal cord, e.g. stretch reflex.
Components of the Reflex Arc
- A spinal reflex arc has five components: receptor, afferent, interneuron, motor neuron, effector.
Components of a spinal reflex arc
Classification of Spinal Reflexes
Reflexes integrated in the spinal cord
Reflex
Stretch reflex (myotatic reflex)
- Receptor
- Muscle spindle
- Synapses
- Monosynaptic
Inverse stretch reflex (inverse myotatic reflex)
- Receptor
- Golgi tendon organ
- Synapses
- Disynaptic
Withdrawal reflex (flexion reflex)
- Receptor
- Nociceptors
- Synapses
- Polysynaptic