Explain Length-Tension Relationship

The force of contraction of cardiac muscle is directly proportional to the initial length of the muscle fibers. This is known as the Starling’s Law of the Heart after the scientist Frank Starling.  In practice, the length of the - cardiac muscle increases when the venous return increases. Hence, an increase in venous return increases the force of contraction of the ventricle. This property has several implications for cardiovascular function and would be discussed in greater detail as we read along.