What reflexes are tested in the lower limb?
There are three reflexes in the lower limb:
- Patellar reflex.
- Ankle jerk reflex.
- Plantar reflex (elicited by stroking up the lateral aspect of the plantar surface)
What are some reflex tests?
Reflexes tested include the following:
- Biceps (innervated by C5 and C6)
- Radial brachialis (by C6)
- Triceps (by C7)
- Distal finger flexors (by C8)
- Quadriceps knee jerk (by L4)
- Ankle jerk (by S1)
- Jaw jerk (by the 5th cranial nerve)
What are the lower extremity reflexes?
The patellar and ankle reflexes are the major motor reflexes of the lower limb. The strength of the reflex, elicited by tapping on the appropriate tendon, can aid in localising a patient’s weakness to the upper motor neuron or lower motor neuron.
How do you test for weak legs?
While you are in the sitting position, your doctor pushes down on your feet while you try to pull your ankles upward. If there is weakness in one leg, the ankle will give way to the downward pressure.
What is clonus test?
A physical test may also help doctors identify clonus. During this test, they will ask the person to quickly flex their foot, so their toes are pointing upward and then hold the muscle there. This may cause a sustained pulsing in the ankle. A series of these pulses may indicate clonus.
How are reflexes tested in a lower limb exam?
Show the patient the tendon hammer and orange stick, and proceed to test reflexes. There are three reflexes to elicit. The patellar reflex (L3-4): Take the weight of the leg and ask the patient to relax. Tap the patellar tendon, which is superior to the tibial tuberosity and inferior to the patella.
How are reflexes elicited in all 4 extremities?
Using a reflex hammer, deep tendon reflexes are elicited in all 4 extremities. Note the extent or power of the reflex, both visually and by palpation of the tendon or muscle in question. Brisker or more reflexive than normally.
How is the triceps reflex measured in a neurological exam?
The triceps reflex is measured by striking the triceps tendon directly with the hammer while holding the patient’s arm with your other hand. Repeat and compare to the other arm.
How is reinforcement done for lower extremity reflexes?
Reinforcement is accomplished by asking the patient to clench their teeth, or if testing lower extremity reflexes, have the patient hook together their flexed fingers and pull apart. This is known as the Jendrassik maneuver. It is key to compare the strength of reflexes elicited with each other.