Types of motor neuron

Alpha motor neurons innervate skeletal muscle fibres, leading to muscle contraction^{1-3}

• They are lower motor neurons and form the final pathway in the motor systems for producing voluntary movement^{4}

• Alpha neurons may also receive innervation directly from sensory neurons, enabling spinal reflexes^{2}

Gamma motor neurons control muscle spindle sensitivity, which helps regulate muscle tone and proprioception, and they are key for executing movement and maintaining balance and posture^{1,2,5,6}

• They also maintain the equilibrium between muscle contraction and relaxation^{1}

• They modulate the activity of stretch reflexes^{1,5}

Precise coordination between alpha and gamma motor neurons is required for neuromechanical efficiency during the execution of movements^{1}