Tests For Upper Limb Reflexes

Question 1

C4

Answer 1

C4

• Upper trapezius or levator scapulae
• Supine
• Tap hammer over the therapist finger which is resting on upper trap or levator scap

Question 2

C5

Answer 2

C5

• Deltoid
• Supine
• Tap reflex hammer over therapist finger which is resting on deltoid

Question 3

C5, C6

Answer 3

C5, C6

• Biceps
• Supine
• With elbow partially flexed, place thumb over the distal biceps tendon and tap dorsal surface of distal phalanx with reflex hammer

Question 4

C6

Answer 4

C6

• Brachioradialis
• Supine
• With the elbow flexed around 45 - 60 degrees and the forearm in mid pronation / supination (the forearm resting on the therapist arm) tap the radius with the reflex hammer

Question 5

C6 (Additional)

Answer 5

C6

• Pronator quadratus
• Supine
• With elbow flexed to 90 degrees and the forearm in supination tap the anterior radius with reflex hammer

Question 6

C7

Answer 6

C7

• Triceps
• Supine
• With elbow flexed to 90 degrees and the forearm resting on the patients abdomen, tap the triceps tendon with the reflex hammer