Massage & Bodywork Licensing Examination (MBLEx)

What is the primary function of a Golgi tendon organ?

1. To detect stretch in muscle fibers

2. To sense changes in muscle tension

3. To initiate muscle contraction

4. To transmit pain signals

The correct answer is: To sense changes in muscle tension

The primary function of a Golgi tendon organ is to sense changes in muscle tension. These specialized mechanoreceptors are located at the junctions between muscles and tendons and play a critical role in controlling muscle contraction and ensuring that muscles do not generate excessive force that could lead to injury. When a muscle contracts, the Golgi tendon organs are activated and send signals to the central nervous system, providing feedback regarding the tension experienced in the muscle. This feedback helps maintain balance and coordination during movements and prevents damage to the muscles and tendons. In contrast, other choices refer to functions performed by different types of sensory receptors or processes. For example, detecting stretch in muscle fibers is the role of muscle spindles, which are sensitive to changes in length and the rate of stretch. Initiating muscle contraction relates more to the role of motor neurons and the neuromuscular junction. Transmitting pain signals is associated with nociceptors, which respond to potentially damaging stimuli. Each of these receptors has its specific purpose, distinguishing their functions from that of the Golgi tendon organ.