The patellar reflex is one of the deep-tendon reflexes and will help differentiate an upper motor neuron lesion from a lower motor neuron lesion. 1 Strike the patellar tendon sharply with a reflex ...

Deep-tendon reflex: When the tendon below your kneecap is tapped in the right spot, it’s briefly stretched. During the stretch, a signal is sent to the spinal cord.

Spasticity is characterized by increased stretch reflexes, resistance to passive movement with a clasp-knife phenomena, ankle clonus, and increased deep tendon reflexes. [9] ...

Usually, absent reflexes are caused by an issue with the nerves in the tendon and muscle. You may have other muscle symptoms along with areflexia, like weakness, twitching, or atrophy.

Your examination reveals an akinetic-rigid state. The patient has masked facies, cogwheel rigidity, brisk deep tendon reflexes, extensor plantar responses, and a shuffling gait. There is no tremor.

To the Editor: An interesting point concerning reflex changes in myxedema was raised by Dr. Sanders's article, "Neurologic Manifestations of Myxedema," in the March 22 issue of the Journal. "Refle ...