Certified Ophthalmic Medical Technologist (COMT) Practice Exam

What law states that when the RMR contracts, the contralateral synergist LLR also contracts?

1. Maddox's Law

2. Sherrington's Law

3. Hering's Law

4. Parkinson's Law

The correct answer is: Hering's Law

Hering's Law of Equal Innervation is the principle that explains the coordination of eye movements, particularly in the context of conjugate eye movements. According to this law, when one muscle contracts, its synergistic counterpart in the opposite eye also activates to maintain alignment and coordinated movement. This is essential in ensuring that both eyes move together smoothly, which is vital for proper binocular vision. In the context of the question, when the retractor muscle of one eye contracts (in this instance referred to as the RMR), the corresponding contralateral synergist (the LLR, or lateral rectus of the other eye) must also contract. This synchronous action helps maintain binocular coordination and balance in eye positioning, highlighting the importance of Hering's Law in ocular physiology and movement. Understanding this law is fundamental for professionals in ophthalmology, as it aids in diagnosing and managing conditions related to eye movements and alignment.