How are the deep tendon reflexes of the lower extremities tested?

How are the deep tendon reflexes of the lower extremities tested?

• A. By using a reflex hammer on the patellar or Achilles tendons
• B. By manually assessing muscle contraction strength
• C. By observing voluntary movement patterns
• D. By comparing baseline activity levels

Answer: (A)

Testing the deep tendon reflexes of the lower extremities is primarily accomplished using a reflex hammer to elicit a response from specific tendons, such as the patellar and Achilles tendons. When the reflex hammer strikes the tendon, it stretches the muscle rapidly, which should trigger an involuntary contraction of the muscle. This response allows clinicians to assess the integrity of the nervous system and the function of the spinal reflex arcs involved. The patellar reflex tests the function of the L2-L4 segments of the spinal cord, while the Achilles reflex assesses the S1-S2 segments. This method provides a clear and direct evaluation of these reflex pathways. In contrast, the other options involve techniques that do not specifically test reflexes. For example, manually assessing muscle contraction strength focuses on voluntary muscle function rather than involuntary responses. Observing voluntary movement patterns and comparing baseline activity levels also do not directly relate to the specific assessment of deep tendon reflexes.

Testing the deep tendon reflexes of the lower extremities is primarily accomplished using a reflex hammer to elicit a response from specific tendons, such as the patellar and Achilles tendons. When the reflex hammer strikes the tendon, it stretches the muscle rapidly, which should trigger an involuntary contraction of the muscle. This response allows clinicians to assess the integrity of the nervous system and the function of the spinal reflex arcs involved.

The patellar reflex tests the function of the L2-L4 segments of the spinal cord, while the Achilles reflex assesses the S1-S2 segments. This method provides a clear and direct evaluation of these reflex pathways. In contrast, the other options involve techniques that do not specifically test reflexes. For example, manually assessing muscle contraction strength focuses on voluntary muscle function rather than involuntary responses. Observing voluntary movement patterns and comparing baseline activity levels also do not directly relate to the specific assessment of deep tendon reflexes.