Athletic Training Practice Exam

Which of the following is not an effect of immobilization on muscle?

1. Increase muscle contraction time

2. Increase in muscle tension produced

3. Decrease in muscle fiber size

4. Decrease in total muscle weight

The correct answer is: Increase in muscle tension produced

The correct response is supported by understanding the physiological effects of immobilization on skeletal muscle. When a muscle is immobilized, it undergoes various adaptations that typically include a decrease in muscle fiber size, reduced muscle weight, and other changes. An increase in muscle tension produced does not occur because immobilization generally leads to a weakening of the muscle fibers. As muscles are not subjected to regular stress or contraction, the overall neuromuscular communication and muscle's ability to generate force diminish over time. The other effects, such as increased muscle contraction time, decreased muscle fiber size, and decreased total muscle weight, are well-documented consequences of immobilization. When a muscle is immobilized and not actively used, it loses strength, mass, or atrophy, which leads to reduced tension and performance capabilities. Overall, this understanding of muscle physiology and the consequences of inactivity helps clarify why the assertion of an increase in muscle tension produced as a result of immobilization is accurate.