Stretch reflex

Mechanism and function

Tendon percussion produces a brief stretch that helps test it. A tendon reflex is therefore a clinical way to assess this mechanism, not a response generated by the tendon alone.

Assessment and clinical implications

Its amplitude varies with relaxation, reinforcement techniques and neurological state. Isolated brisk reflexes are not synonymous with myelopathy, although a pattern of signs may be significant.

Points to consider

Movement integrates sensory input, spinal circuits and central commands. Balance and coordination also depend on vision, vestibular function and attention. Difficulty with one task therefore cannot isolate a single mechanism without assessment.

Role of TAGMED care

At TAGMED, assessment aims to understand symptoms, history and functional limitations. Manual care and osteopathy, motorized spinal decompression, laser and shockwave have different indications. The term described in this entry is not enough to select any of these modalities. Their relevance, limitations and possible contraindications should be discussed in relation to diagnosis and individual goals.

Related concepts and distinctions

These concepts belong to the same field, but are not synonyms.

• Reflex arc — Neural circuit connecting a receptor, afferent pathway, integration center and efferent pathway to an effector to produce a reflex response.
• Reciprocal inhibition — Spinal mechanism that helps reduce activity in some antagonist muscles when a muscle group is activated during movement or a reflex.
• Muscle spindle — Sensory receptor within a muscle that informs the nervous system about muscle length and changes in length.

Medical references

1. OpenStax, Rice University. Anatomy and Physiology 2e — Motor Responses.
2. OpenStax, Rice University. Anatomy and Physiology 2e — The Peripheral Nervous System.

References document the topic; their inclusion does not imply endorsement of TAGMED services by those organizations.