Cerebral Coordination and Deep Tendon Reflex Assessment Notes

Assessment of Cerebral Coordination and Reflexes

1. Cerebral Coordination with Rapid Alternating Movements

• Serial Finger Opposition

  • Procedure:
    • Patient is instructed to hold fingers up.
    • One at a time, move from each finger to the thumb and back.
  • Normal Findings:
    • Movements should be smooth and well-coordinated.

• Hand Movements

  • Procedure:
    • Patient places hands on their legs.
    • Rapidly moves hands back and forth.
  • Normal Findings:
    • Movements should be swift and well-coordinated.

2. Deep Tendon Reflexes

• Biceps Reflex

  • Procedure:
    • Patient's arm is held out at a 90-degree angle.
    • Place thumb in the antecubital fossa.
    • Using a reflex hammer, strike the thumb.
  • Normal Findings:
    • Presence of rhythmic contraction of the bicep tendon (felts as a jerk).

• Patellar Reflex

  • Procedure:
    • Ensure patient's legs are relaxed.
    • Locate the dip just below the patella.
    • Use reflex hammer to strike the area.
  • Normal Findings:
    • Observation of a visible jerk in response.

• Achilles Reflex

  • Procedure:
    • Patient must relax the foot.
    • Dorsiflex the foot.
    • Tap the Achilles tendon using the flat end of the reflex hammer.
  • Findings to Note:
    • Look for pronation with the reflex response, which may indicate further assessment is needed.