MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Types of muscle tissue

Skip navigation

Medical Encyclopedia

Types of muscle tissue

The 3 types of muscle tissue are cardiac, smooth, and skeletal. Cardiac muscle cells are located in the walls of the heart, appear spindle-shaped, and are under involuntary control. Smooth muscle fibers are located in walls of hollow visceral organs, except the heart, appear striated, and are also under involuntary control. Skeletal muscle fibers occur in muscles which are attached to the skeleton. They appear striated in appearance and are under voluntary control.

Update Date: 1/24/2006

Updated by: A.D.A.M. Medical Illustration Team

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 1997-2008, A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.