Neurological Examination of the Leg 7a: Brisk Reflexes

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


 

 

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Power
(grades)
Power
(tests)
Abnormal Plantar
response		 Co-ordination Sensation
 Sensation Dermatomes
(revision)		 Pain or pinprick
Sensation
(vibration)
Sensation
(joint position)
Sensation
(ankle joint position)
Sensation
(temperature)
Gait
(Romberg's)