Patellar reflex help

[mrslackalot]

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So how hard do you hit in order to determine if someone is hyperreflexive (patellar)? I mean if you hit hard enough, everyone will get a big reflex. Can't find any good videos online.

 

[AlternateSome1]

3+ is often a judgement call. You look for asymmetry between sides, you check for spread to another joint or into the contralateral limb, and you seek other signs of hyperreflexia (upgoing toes, Hoffmans).

 

[typhoonegator]

As long as you test everyone consistently, you will get a feel for what is pathologic and what is not.

 

[cyneuron]

a nice one from Harrison's -

It is important to determine the smallest stimulus required to elicit a reflex rather than the maximum response.

Good set of videos here - http://www.neuroexam.com/neuroexam/

 

[caedmon]

Look for clonus. sustained v non-sustained. you can also try the quad tendon just suprapatellar and move proximally. also try the crossed adductor response.