The Activation of Muscle Spindles Enhances the Thixotropic Behavior of Rib Cage Respiratory Muscles

Abstract

Rib cage inspiratory muscle contractions at a deep inflated position caused a subsequent increase in rib cage cross-sectional area at the end-expiratory phase. The increase in this area was enhanced by the activation of muscle spindles in the inspiratory muscles by a mechanical vibration combined with muscle contractions.