FAU Advanced Health Assessment Practice Test

Which motor pathway is responsible for maintaining muscle tone and controlling gross automatic movements?

1. Basal ganglia

2. Cerebellar system

3. Corticospinal tract

4. Peripheral nervous system

The correct answer is: Basal ganglia

The basal ganglia play a crucial role in maintaining muscle tone and regulating gross automatic movements. This group of nuclei in the brain is involved in the coordination of movement, particularly in facilitating smooth, intentional actions and inhibiting unwanted movements. The basal ganglia help modulate movement intensity and are essential for routines that require repetitive actions, such as walking or cycling. In terms of muscle tone, the basal ganglia contribute to postural adjustments and maintaining a level of background muscle tension necessary for movement control. By influencing the motor cortex and brainstem, these structures ensure coordinated movement and stability, which is key for both voluntary and involuntary actions. Other options presented, while important in motor function, serve different purposes. The cerebellar system primarily focuses on fine-tuning motor activities and maintaining balance and coordination rather than controlling gross movements or muscle tone. The corticospinal tract commands voluntary motor functions but is less involved in automatic movements and muscle tone regulation. The peripheral nervous system transmits motor signals but does not directly control motor pathways to maintain tone or movement quality.