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Reflexes
What is a reflex?
An action that is performed without conscious thought as a response to a stimulus.
Why check reflexes?
Checking for possible damage within the nervous system.
3 responses Hyporeflexia Hyperreflexia Normal
The 3 Reflex Responses
Hyporeflexia Absent or decreased movement Problem peripheral nervous tissue▪ Trauma, impingement, or entrapment
Hyperreflexia Increased movement Lesion in the spine above the level of the
reflex Normal
Normal movement
Reflex Locations
Cervical Nerves Biceps Tendon Triceps Tendon Brachioradialis Tendon
Thoracic Nerves Abdomen
Lumbar Nerves Patellar Tendon
Sacral nerves Achilles’ Tendon
Babinski’s Reflex
The sole of the foot is firmly stroked Great toe extension Other toes fan out Occurs in children 2 years and
younger
Video
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7h5o-FJUDRA
Biceps Tendon Reflex
Grasp patient’s elbow with one hand, placing your thumb on the biceps tendon
Cradle patient’s forearm with elbow in slight flexion
Using the smaller end of the reflex hammer tap your thumb
You should feel or see a contraction
Patellar Tendon Reflex
Position the patient seated with knees off the end of the table
Locate the patellar tendon, just below the patella
Using the larger end of the reflex hammer, tap the tendon
You should see a contraction
References http://www.livestrong.com/article/
188330-the-purpose-of-checking-reflexes/