Lesson: Arthrokenetic Reflex

Lesson: Arthrokinetic Reflex — The Joint’s Hidden Switch

What Is the Arthrokinetic Reflex?

The arthrokinetic reflex is a neurological response where movement or pressure in a joint capsule causes an immediate reflexive activation or inhibition of nearby muscles.

It’s controlled by mechanoreceptors in the joint capsule, especially:

• Type I: Low-threshold, static position sensors

• Type II: Dynamic movement sensors

• Type III: Inhibitory stretch receptors (like Golgi tendon organs)

• Type IV: Nociceptors (pain-based)

What Does It Do?

This reflex determines which muscles contract or relax based on:

• Joint angle

• Pressure

• Tension

• Velocity of movement

This is what makes locks & joint manipulations work beyond pain:

• You move the joint → stimulate receptors

• CNS reflexively inhibits the muscles resisting it

• You get effortless control

Application in Tuite:

Elbow S-Lock Example

• You slightly rotate & extend the elbow

• Joint capsule receptors fire

• The biceps is inhibited, triceps may activate

• The person collapses, even if they don’t feel pain

Pain is optional. Reflex is automatic.

Bonus: Paired With Proprioceptive Overload

If you combine:

• Skin stretch (cutaneous input)

• Fascial torque

• Joint movement (arthrokinetic reflex)

You get neurological confusion → CNS doesn’t know what to stabilize → you gain control.

This is why slight movement + good angle beats brute force every time.

Understand the Science. Master the Art! 🐼