Which type of muscles controls involuntary movements such as breathing and digestion?

Study for the Healthcare Sterile Processing Association (HSPA) Certification Exam. Test your knowledge with flashcards and multiple choice questions. Each question includes hints and explanations. Prepare to succeed in your exam!

Smooth muscles are the correct type of muscles that control involuntary movements such as breathing and digestion. These muscles are found in various internal organs, including the stomach, intestines, and blood vessels, facilitating essential bodily functions without conscious effort. For example, the contraction of smooth muscles in the walls of the intestines aids in peristalsis, the process that moves food through the digestive tract.

Skeletal muscles, on the other hand, are responsible for voluntary movements and attach to bones, allowing individuals to perform actions intentionally, such as walking or lifting. Cardiac muscles are specialized muscles found only in the heart, controlling the heartbeat and also operating involuntarily, but they do not participate in breathing or digestion. Voluntary muscles refers generally to skeletal muscles, which do not contribute to the involuntary processes mentioned. Therefore, smooth muscles specifically play a crucial role in managing involuntary functions necessary for sustaining life.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy