Testing reflexes

Question 1

Describe the best way to assess for the triceps reflex

Answer 1

Hang forearm loose at a 90 degree angle to the body and strike tricep tendon

Question 2

Describe the best way to assess for the biceps reflex

Answer 2

Place thumb on biceps tendon and strike thumb

Question 3

Describe the best way to assess for the brachioradialis reflex

Answer 3

Find brachioradialis muscle tendon at its point of insertion onto the styloid process and tap there (radial side of wrist around 4 inches proximal to base of thumb)
The reflex should cause slight pronation or supination and slight elbow flexion

Question 4

Describe the best way to assess for the knee jerk

Answer 4

Locate the patellar tendon between the inferior border of the patella and the tibial tubercle

Question 5

Describe the best way to assess for the calcaneal reflex

Answer 5

Trace a parallel line from the lateral malleolus round to the achilles tendon to find site
Dorsiflex the foot slightly with one hand holding the toes

Question 6

Which nerve does the biceps reflex test?

Answer 6

C56

Question 7

Which nerve does the triceps reflex test?

Answer 7

C78

Question 8

Which nerve does the brachioradialis reflex test?

Answer 8

C67

Question 9

Which nerve does the calcaneal reflex test?

Answer 9

S12

Question 10

Which nerve does the knee jerk test?

Answer 10

L34