What is a high frequency tetanic contraction best described as?

A high frequency tetanic contraction is best described as a contraction that recruits more muscle units. When electrical stimulation occurs at high frequencies, it leads to a rapid succession of action potentials fired at the muscle fibers. This can produce a sustained contraction known as tetanus, where the muscle does not have a chance to relax between contractions, thereby activating and utilizing a larger number of muscle motor units.

This phenomenon is particularly important in muscle physiology because as more motor units are recruited during a contraction, the overall force generated by the muscle increases. High frequency stimulation effectively ensures that a greater number of muscle fibers are engaged, contributing to enhanced strength and muscle performance, which is a key principle utilized in rehabilitation and strength training applications.