The patellar reflex, also called the knee reflex or knee-jerk, is a stretch reflex which tests the L2, L3, and L4 segments of the spinal cord. Many animals, most significantly humans, have been …

One of the several positions that a subject may take for the test is to sit with knees bent and with one leg crossed over the other so that the upper foot hangs clear of the floor. The sharp tap on …

The reflex exam is fundamental to the neurological exam and important to locating upper versus lower motor neuron lesions. There are five deep tendon reflexes and a number of superficial …

Jul 27, 2025 · The patellar reflex begins when a healthcare professional taps the patellar tendon, located just below the kneecap, with a reflex hammer. This tap stretches the quadriceps …

In this lab, students will determine the response time, conduction velocity (speed), and amplitude (strength) of two stretch reflexes: the Achilles reflex at the ankle and the patellar (knee-jerk) …

Dec 5, 2025 · The patellar reflex is contraction of the quadriceps femoris muscle, with resulting extension of the knee, in response to percussion of the patellar tendon. A firm tap on the …

The patellar reflex, also known as the knee-jerk reflex, is a monosynaptic spinal reflex that evaluates the integrity of the L2-L4 spinal cord segments and the femoral nerve. It is one of …

The patellar reflex or knee-jerk is a stretch reflex. Striking the patellar tendon with a tendon hammer just below the patella stretches the quadriceps tendon.

Nov 8, 2025 · During a normal patellar reflex, the knee extensors momentarily relax to allow the knee to flex in response to the tap on the patellar tendon. This reflex, also known as the knee …

Jul 23, 2025 · The knee-jerk reflex, formally known as the patellar reflex, is an involuntary kicking motion of the lower leg. It occurs when the patellar tendon, located just below the kneecap, …