University of Scranton - Department of Physical Therapy
Edmund M. Kosmahl, PT, EdD
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PT351 ORTHOPAEDIC PT
LABORATORY SKILL
Dr. E. Kosmahl
BRACHIORADIALIS (C6)
MUSCLE STRETCH REFLEX
  Brachioradialis (C6) Reflex Picture

Purpose
  • To provoke a root (C6) or cord

    • (CNS) sign
Positive Response
  • Hypoactive (root) 
  • Hyperactive (cord - CNS) 
Technique
  • Patient sitting and relaxed
  • Therapist applies a brisk tap to the brachioradialis tendon (near myotendinous junction)  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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