Upper Extremity Reflexes

Jul 22, 2025

Overview

This lecture demonstrates how to perform an upper extremity reflex examination, highlighting the techniques and expected responses for each major reflex.

Biceps Reflex

  • Support the forearm on the patient's thighs in a relaxed position between flexion and extension.
  • Place one finger over the biceps tendon and tap briskly.
  • Expect to see flexion at the elbow as a normal response.

Brachioradialis Reflex

  • Flex the patient's arm at the elbow and position it midway between pronation and supination (midrone).
  • Tap over the brachioradialis tendon at the wrist.
  • Observe for flexion and supination of the forearm.

Pronator Teres Reflex

  • Position the patient's arm supine (palm up).
  • Tap over the pronator teres muscle.
  • Look for pronation of the forearm as the response.
  • Note the difference between this reflex and the brachioradialis reflex.

Triceps Reflex

  • Support the patient's arm in abduction and internal rotation.
  • Tap briskly over the triceps tendon.
  • Expect to see extension of the arm at the elbow.

Finger Jerk Reflex

  • Place the patientโ€™s fingers in a semiflexed position and match them with your own fingers.
  • Tap briskly over your own fingers.
  • Observe for finger flexion as the expected response.

Key Terms & Definitions

  • Flexion โ€” bending a joint, decreasing the angle between two body parts.
  • Extension โ€” straightening a joint, increasing the angle between two body parts.
  • Supination โ€” rotating the forearm so the palm faces up.
  • Pronation โ€” rotating the forearm so the palm faces down.
  • Tendon โ€” a fibrous connective tissue attaching muscle to bone.

Action Items / Next Steps

  • Practice each reflex examination technique on a partner or mannequin.
  • Review the anatomical landmarks for each muscle and tendon involved.