Short anagen syndrome

Withdrawal reflex is a reflex action of a body part moving away from a source of harm. This reflex is an involuntary and nearly instantaneous movement in response to a stimulus.

Overview

The withdrawal reflex, also known as the flexor reflex, is a spinal reflex intended to protect the body from damaging stimuli. It is a polysynaptic reflex, meaning that there is more than one synapse in the neural pathway. This allows for a more complex response - the simultaneous contraction of the flexor and relaxation of the extensor in the same limb.

Mechanism

The withdrawal reflex begins with nociceptors, which are sensory receptors for pain. When these receptors are stimulated, they send signals to the spinal cord via sensory neurons. The sensory neurons then synapse with interneurons in the spinal cord, which send signals to the motor neurons. The motor neurons then stimulate the flexor muscle to contract, pulling the limb away from the harmful stimulus.

Clinical significance

The withdrawal reflex is often used in neurological examinations to assess the condition of the nervous system. An absent or diminished withdrawal reflex can indicate damage to the sensory neurons, interneurons, or motor neurons involved in the reflex. This could be due to a variety of conditions, such as neuropathy, spinal cord injury, or neurodegenerative disease.

See also

• Reflex arc
• Pain
• Nociception

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