How to check the triceps reflex center

The triceps is an important muscle in our arms. Normally, we use this group of muscles whenever we use our hands, so it plays a huge role. However, when there is a problem, the reaction will be slow or weak. This requires going to the hospital to check the triceps reflex center. So how should it be checked? Let’s have a brief understanding through the following introduction.

Triceps reflex: The doctor supports the patient's elbow with his left hand, and the patient's forearm is placed on the doctor's left forearm, with the upper arm slightly abducted. Then the doctor uses a percussion hammer to directly tap the triceps tendon attachment above the olecranon process of the ulna. The normal reaction is contraction of the triceps and slight extension of the forearm. The reflex center is in the 7th and 8th segments of the cervical spinal cord.

The triceps reflex is a deep reflex of the upper limb, which is a rapid contraction reaction of the triceps brachii when it is suddenly pulled. The reflex center of the reflex arc is in the 6th and 7th cervical segments, and is conducted by the radial nerve. The examination method is as follows: the patient abducts the forearm with the elbow semi-flexed, the examiner holds the forearm and taps the triceps tendon above the olecranon with a percussion hammer. The reaction is contraction of the triceps and extension of the elbow joint.

Abnormal results: The reflex center of the reflex arc of the triceps reflex is in C6-7 and is conducted by the radial nerve. Abnormal triceps reflex suggests damage to the above reflex arc. People who need to be examined: patients with arm muscle weakness or muscle atrophy.

Through the above introduction, we know how to check the triceps reflex center. However, there are also people who are not suitable for the examination, especially those with arm disabilities or injuries. In addition, you should relax before the examination and check the reflex phenomenon by tapping the nerves of the patient's arm to find out the situation.