1. The Equine Muscular System
Equine Science

2. Muscles Function: One or more nerves bring commands AND send signals
Provide movement
Active organs of motion
Contract or change shape when stimulated
One or more nerves bring commands AND send signals
Red flesh
Make up about 50% of total body weight

3. Types of Muscles Smooth (Involuntary) Cardiac (Involuntary Striated)
Skeletal (Striated)

4. Smooth Muscle Also called visceral muscle Location:
Digestive system
Uterus
Capable of prolonged periods of activity
Peristalsis: wavelike contractions of digestive system muscles
Contraction is involuntary

5. Cardiac Muscle Location: ONLY found in the heart
Requires NO nerve stimulus
Requires NO conscious control
Rate of contraction controlled by the nervous system

6. Skeletal Muscle Move the body voluntarily
Usually attached to the bony levers of the skeleton
Utilizes tendons to transmit the pull of the muscle
Permits several muscles to attach at one point
Generally arranged in pairs
Become fatigued and require rest

7. Skeletal Muscle
Extensor: extends a joint and brings bones into alignment
Flexor: bends the joint
Some muscles can act as both
Opposed muscles act successively

8. Tendons
Strong, cordlike structure that transmits the pull of the muscle as it contracts
Tendon Sheath: synovial sac through which a tendon passes
Tendon Bursa: synovial sac between the tendon and the surface over which it passes in a change of direction
Both secrete synovia for lubrication
Both usually found near joints

9. Five Major Functional Muscle Groups
Forearms: allow for smooth gait and absorb shock
Quadriceps: (hindquarters) used for propulsion
Pectorals: carrying space for lungs
Back: support riders or packs
Stomach: hold organs in place