Achilles jerk
| Dictionary: Achilles jerk |
n.
A reflex bending of the foot resulting from the contraction of lower leg muscles.
| 5min Related Video: Achilles jerk |
| Medical Dictionary: Achilles reflex |
n.
A reflex bending of the foot resulting from contraction of the calf muscles when the Achilles tendon is sharply struck. Also called Achilles jerk, Achilles tendon reflex, ankle reflex, triceps surae reflex.
| Wikipedia: Ankle jerk reflex |
The ankle jerk reflex, also known as the Achilles reflex, occurs when the Achilles tendon is tapped while the foot is dorsi-flexed. A positive result would be the jerking of the foot towards its plantar surface.
The Achilles reflex checks if the S1 and S2 nerve roots are intact and could be indicative of sciatic nerve pathology. It is classically delayed in hypothyroidism. This reflex is usually absent in disk herniations at the L5-S1 level.
A reduction in the ankle jerk reflex may also be indicative of peripheral neuropathy.
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 | Dictionary. The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition Copyright © 2007, 2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Updated in 2009. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved. Read more |
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| Medical Dictionary. The American Heritage® Stedman's Medical Dictionary Copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Read more |
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| Wikipedia. This article is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution/Share-Alike License. It uses material from the Wikipedia article "Ankle jerk reflex". Read more |
