Neurological Examination of the Leg 7: Reflexes (2)

Knee (L2, L3, L4)
    1. Have the patient lie down and lift the knee.
    2. Strike the patellar tendon just below the patella.
    3. Note contraction of the quadriceps and extension of the knee.

Ankle (L5, S1)

    1. Dorsiflex the foot at the ankle.
    2. Strike the Achilles tendon (most easily done by crossing the legs).
    3. Watch and feel for plantar flexion at the ankle.

If the reflexes seem hyperactive, test for ankle clonus

If the reflexes seem absent, or weak, perform Jendrassik's manoevre to bring them out
 

 

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Power
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Power
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Abnormal Plantar
response
Co-ordination Sensation
Sensation Dermatomes
(revision)
Pain or pinprick
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(vibration)
Sensation
(joint position)
Sensation
(ankle joint position)
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