The acoustic reflex is an involuntary muscle contraction that occurs in the middle ear in response to loud sounds. This reflex helps protect the inner ear from potential damage by reducing the movement of the ossicles, the tiny bones that transmit sound vibrations. The contraction is triggered by sounds above a certain intensity, typically around 70-90 decibels. The stapedius muscle, one of the key muscles involved in the acoustic reflex, contracts to stiffen the ossicular chain. This action decreases the amount of sound energy that reaches the cochlea, the part of the inner ear responsible for converting sound waves into nerve signals. The acoustic reflex is an important mechanism for hearing protection and helps maintain auditory health.