University of Scranton - Department of Physical Therapy
Edmund M. Kosmahl, PT, EdD
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PT351 ORTHOPAEDIC PT
LABORATORY SKILL
Dr. E. Kosmahl
BICEPS BRACHII (C5)
MUSCLE STRETCH REFLEX
Biceps Brachii (C5) Reflex Picture

Purpose
  • To provoke a root (C5) or cord

    • (CNS) sign
Positive Response
  • Hypoactive (root)
  • Hyperactive (cord - CNS)
Technique
  • Patient sitting and relaxed
  • Therapist places her thumb over biceps tendon and applies a brisk tap (to her thumb nail) with reflex hammer
Comments
  • Patient must be relaxed
  • Amplify response by having patient cross legs and squeeze the legs together
  • Flick hammer repetitively
  • Grip on hammer should be loose (hammer should bounce when striking tendon)

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