Muscle guarding意思

"Muscle guarding" is a term used in the field of physiology, particularly in the context of pain and injury, to describe a protective mechanism in which the muscles around an injured or painful area become tense and contracted. This contraction of the muscles is an involuntary response to protect the injured area from further harm.

When a muscle is injured, it sends pain signals to the central nervous system, which in turn triggers a reflex response to protect the muscle. This response involves the contraction of the muscles around the injured area, which can help to immobilize the joint and reduce the range of motion.

Muscle guarding can occur in various parts of the body, but it is particularly common in the back, where it can contribute to conditions such as low back pain. It can also occur in the legs, arms, and other parts of the body.

While muscle guarding is a natural and protective response, it can also lead to further problems if it persists for a long time. The constant contraction of the muscles can lead to muscle fatigue, tension, and spasms, which can themselves be painful and can limit mobility. In some cases, muscle guarding can also lead to the development of chronic pain conditions.