Blue Portance · Living reference
Clear definitions and independent references to understand the terms used in our articles.
94 published terms
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The definitions
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Mechanical load refers to all the forces applied to the body or to a tissue. It is described by several variables: magnitude, direction, area of application, duration, frequency, loading rate and recovery between exposures.
3 references cited Scope and limits in the entry
Mechanoreceptors are specialized sensory receptors that detect mechanical stimuli (touch, pressure, vibration, stretch) and convert them into nerve signals. This process is called mechanoreception.
2 references cited Scope and limits in the entry
Mechanotransduction is the process by which a cell converts a mechanical stimulus, such as stretch, pressure or shear, into biochemical signals that alter its activity.
4 references cited Scope and limits in the entry
Small-amplitude movements that can take part in continuous postural adjustments and vary support and stress without a complete change of position.
4 references cited Scope and limits in the entry
Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) are conditions of the locomotor system affecting muscles, tendons, nerves and periarticular structures, favored in particular by exertion, awkward postures, repetitive movements and work organization.
2 references cited Scope and limits in the entry
Myofascial continuity refers to the anatomical connections through which connective tissue links a muscle to its neighbors and to other regions of the body, with no break between their sheaths.
3 references cited Scope and limits in the entry
Myofascial force transmission refers to the transfer of part of the force produced by a muscle to neighboring connective tissues and muscles, outside its tendon.
4 references cited Scope and limits in the entry
Myofascial pain syndrome is regional muscle pain associated with trigger points: highly sensitive spots, located within a taut band of muscle, where pressure reproduces the pain felt, sometimes at a distance.
4 references cited Scope and limits in the entry
The myofibroblast is a connective tissue cell, most often derived from a fibroblast, that acquires the ability to contract. It helps close wounds but, if it persists, can contribute to fibrosis.
3 references cited Scope and limits in the entry
