reciprocal inhibition

• Processo fisiológico em que a contração de um músculo é acompanhada pelo relaxamento do músculo antagonista, frequentemente usado em contextos terapêuticos para reduzir tensão ou espasmo muscular.

A physiological process in which the contraction of one muscle is accompanied by the relaxation of its opposing muscle group, often used in therapeutic contexts to reduce muscle tension or spasm.

1. Physiological processC1formal

   A neurological process where the contraction of one muscle is accompanied by the relaxation of its opposing muscle group.

   Processo fisiológico

   • Reciprocal inhibition allows for smooth and coordinated movement.
   • Physical therapists use the principle of reciprocal inhibition to reduce muscle spasms.
   • When you contract your biceps, reciprocal inhibition relaxes your triceps.

2. Psychological techniqueC2formal

   A behavioral therapy technique where a relaxation response is used to inhibit an anxiety response.

   Técnica psicológica

   • Reciprocal inhibition is a core principle in systematic desensitization therapy.
   • The therapist used reciprocal inhibition to help the patient overcome their phobia.
   • By pairing a relaxing stimulus with a feared one, reciprocal inhibition reduces the fear response.