Spinal Reflexes

Start with the mind maps

The first Spinal Reflexes mind map brings together afferent fiber classification, muscle spindle stretch reflexes, innervation and Golgi tendon organs. It also covers withdrawal reflexes. Start there to see the terms and pathways collected in one place, then return to individual branches as you study.

A second mind map with the same title focuses on principles of spinal reflexes. It includes coordinated responses in several muscles and the role of supraspinal centers in adapting reflexes.

Practice with quizzes and flashcards

Furley's Lectures asks what reflexes are and includes questions about the patellar reflex and the stretch reflex. Past Papers includes questions on jerk reflex latency and the characteristics of voluntary actions compared with reflexes. After looking at a map, use a quiz to see which terms and distinctions you can recall.

The Reflexes flashcards include questions about motor neurons, monosynaptic reflexes and nerve fibers. Another flashcard deck asks about afferents entering and efferents exiting the spinal cord, as well as monosynaptic and polysynaptic reflexes. Use these questions for focused practice between visits to the maps.

Connect questions with the maps

When a quiz question feels unfamiliar, find a related term in one of the maps. For example, the first map includes the myotatic stretch reflex, while Furley's Lectures asks about the stretch reflex. The mind map on reflexes also outlines receptors, effectors and reflex circuits. Return to the question after studying the relevant material.

Place the topic in its unit

Spinal Reflexes is a section of the Membrane Potentials, Action Potentials and Synaptic Transmission unit in Physiology. The resources on this page offer different ways to study that section, from an overview of reflex principles to questions about particular reflexes and nerve pathways.

Choose a map to explore, then use the flashcards and quizzes for practice.