he defining genetic trait is a neuromuscular condition which developed naturally that causes them to stiffen and sometimes fall over when startled. These goats are called by various lay terms.... Tennessee fainting goats (a misnomer, because they do not lose consciousness, hence they don't faint), wood leg, stiff-leg, nervous, or scare goats. The most accurate common name is the STIFF-LEG. Myotonia is seen in other species . . . human beings and tumbler pigeons are but two examples.
The degree of stiffness varies within the breed, with the meatier, more muscular animals displaying more stiffness. Not unlike humans who exercise and lift weights, the constant contraction and relaxation of the muscles build the meat characteristics.
Myotonia congenita is the medical term to describe stiffening; this simply means that the condition is inherited from prior generations. Myotonia was probably originally the result of a genetic mutation as the evolutionary process took place. However, myotonia is no longer considered a defect. Myotonia occurs in the muscle fiber... not as a function of the central nervous system.... and causes no problem for the goats
