FRC Neurological Adaptations and Motor Control Flashcards

Which nervous system division is primarily targeted by FRC's slow, controlled movement protocols to reduce threat perception at joints?

Answer: Parasympathetic nervous system

FRC's slow, mindful movement approach helps engage the parasympathetic system, reducing the threat response that causes protective muscular guarding at unfamiliar joint positions.

What is 'neuromechanical matching' as it pertains to FRC principles?

Answer: Aligning mechanical load with neurological readiness to safely expand joint range

Neuromechanical matching ensures that the mechanical demands placed on a joint correspond to the nervous system's current level of motor control and readiness, preventing injury during range expansion.

According to FRC, why is it important to perform CARs slowly and with full muscular engagement?

Answer: To maximize neural input and maintain accurate proprioceptive maps of joint range

Slow, fully engaged CARs generate rich proprioceptive feedback and reinforce the nervous system's ability to control the complete joint range, sustaining accurate neural mapping.

In FRC, what is the functional difference between a 'passive' stretch and an 'active' mobility drill?

Answer: Passive stretches use external force without muscle engagement; active drills require muscular effort throughout the range

Passive stretches are driven by gravity or a partner without active muscle use, while active mobility drills require the nervous system to produce and control movement, building functional range.

Which concept explains why a client may lose access to a joint range during stressful or fatigued states in FRC practice?

Answer: The nervous system increases protective inhibition when threat perception is elevated

When the nervous system perceives increased threat — from fatigue, stress, or pain — it increases protective inhibition, reducing the range of motion it will permit to prevent injury.

How does consistent FRC training influence the density of mechanoreceptors over time?

Answer: It stimulates mechanoreceptor development and sensitivity, improving joint position awareness

Regular FRC training stimulates connective tissue and joint structures, improving the sensitivity and responsiveness of mechanoreceptors, which enhances proprioceptive awareness and motor control.