Ankle jerk reflex
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The ankle jerk reflex, also known as the Achilles reflex, occurs when the Achilles tendon is tapped while the foot is dorsi-flexed. A positive result would be the jerking of the foot towards its plantar surface.
The Achilles reflex checks if the S1 and S2[1] nerve roots are intact and could be indicative of sciatic nerve pathology. It is classically delayed in hypothyroidism. This reflex is usually absent in disk herniations at the L5—S1 level.
A reduction in the ankle jerk reflex may also be indicative of peripheral neuropathy.
[edit] See also
[edit] References
- ^ William J. Weiner (30 July 2010). Neurology for the Non-Neurologist. Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. pp. 499–. ISBN 9781605472393. http://books.google.com/books?id=eQa9c3-roD8C&pg=PA499. Retrieved 4 July 2011.
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