How many muscles does it take to frown?

Discovery Health

Science doesn't have a definitive number, in spite of what you might have heard or read in an e-mail. People's frowns vary; some folks have more facial muscles than others, giving them the ability to be more expressive.

Continue Learning about Functions of Muscles

Discovery Health

Every muscle cell has some amount of ATP. Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is the way your body uses bio...

National Athletic Trainers' Association

The rib cage assists with breathing by using a pair of muscles located between each rib known as the...

Dr. Vonda Wright, MD

We lose lean muscle mass beginning around age 50. By age 80, we have lost 50 percent of our lean mus...

Ms. Ashley Koff, RD

Involuntary muscle activities are going on continuously to keep you alive. Your heart, which itself ...

Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.

Functions of Muscles

Muscles keep your body moving by contracting and relaxing. In some cases, this movement is voluntary. You use your skeletal muscles to bend your arms or legs when you want. Smooth muscles, however, are part of the involuntary movement within your body. These muscles surround organs of the digestive tract as well as the arteries. You don't have to be aware of the process -- your brain controls the function! One of the most vital muscles is the cardiac muscle, or heart. Understanding the functions of muscles can help you keep them healthy or treat injury as needed.

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