Which of the following best describes the function of Golgi tendon organs?

The function of Golgi tendon organs primarily involves providing feedback about muscle tension, particularly during active muscle contraction. These sensory receptors are located at the junction of muscles and tendons, and they play a critical role in proprioception, which is the body's ability to sense its position and movement in space.

When muscle tension increases significantly, the Golgi tendon organs are activated. Their primary role is to inhibit muscle contraction in order to prevent injury due to excessive force. This response is known as the Golgi tendon reflex, which can lead to muscle relaxation when tension reaches a certain threshold. In essence, when the Golgi tendon organs detect too much tension, they signal the nervous system to facilitate relaxation of the muscle to protect the muscle and tendon from damage.

Given this function, the option that states Golgi tendon organs cause muscle relaxation under tension accurately reflects their role in maintaining muscle integrity and preventing injury, making it the best answer among the provided choices.