eccentric muscle contraction
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Related to eccentric muscle contraction: isometric muscle contraction, concentric muscle contraction
eccentric muscle contraction
Lengthening of the muscle as it contracts against resistance. Lowering the body from a position in which the body was supported by the flexed arms, i.e., holding onto a bar above the head, is such a contraction.
See also: contraction
ec·cen·tric mus·cle con·trac·tion
(ek-sen'trik mŭs'ĕl kŏn-trak'shŭn)Increase in muscle tone during lengthening of the muscle such that the muscle opposes, but does not stop, movement. Movement is controlled, as in the opening of the jaw.