Reflexes Flashcards
1
Q
what is a stretch reflex
A
afferent fibre carries a signal from stretch receptors in muscle spindles
efferent (alpha motor neuron) carries signal back to muscle to contract
there is simultaneous inhibitory signal to antagonist muscle, which is mediated via and inhibitory interneuron
2
Q
why are reflexes clinically relevant
A
help localise lesions, determine whether they are upper or lower MN
3
Q
what do brisk reflexes indicate
A
upper motor neuron lesion
4
Q
what do reduced or absent reflexes indicate
A
lower motor neuron lesion
5
Q
what is the Babinski response indicative of
A
upper motor neuron lesion
6
Q
what causes a stretch reflex
A
tapping a tendon
7
Q
what reflexes are tested
A
biceps - C5
triceps - C7
supinator - C6
patellar - L3-4
ankle - S1
