Relaxation phase

Definition

The relaxation phase is a period during the muscle contraction cycle when a muscle returns to its initial resting state after tension. It involves the cessation of nerve signals and the outflow of calcium ions from the muscle fibers, allowing them to relax.

Related terms

Muscle Contraction:

The process by which muscle fibers generate tension through the action of actin and myosin cross-bridge cycling, often resulting in the shortening of the muscle.

Action Potential:

A rapid rise and subsequent fall in voltage or membrane potential across a cellular membrane due to stimulus, leading to muscle contraction.

Calcium Ions:

Essential ions that bind to troponin, causing tropomyosin to move off actin, which allows cross-bridge cycling and muscle contraction