How Do You Spell ACHILLES REFLEX?

Pronunciation: [ɐkˈɪliːz ɹˈiːflɛks] (IPA)

The term "Achilles reflex" refers to a physical test in which a healthcare provider taps the Achilles tendon to check for proper functioning of the nerves responsible for ankle movement. The spelling of the word "Achilles" can be explained using IPA phonetic transcription as [əˈkɪliːz]. This indicates that the first syllable is pronounced with a schwa sound, followed by a stressed "k" sound and a long "ee" sound. The word is commonly misspelled as "achilles" (without capitalization) or with incorrect vowel combinations such as "achillesse."

ACHILLES REFLEX Meaning and Definition

1. The Achilles reflex, also known as the ankle jerk reflex or the Achilles tendon reflex, is a neurological examination technique used to evaluate the function of the S1 nerve root that originates from the spinal cord. It is named after the Greek mythological figure Achilles, whose only vulnerability was a tendon in his heel.

   The reflex is elicited by tapping the Achilles tendon, which is the largest tendon in the body located at the back of the lower leg, just above the heel bone. This tap stimulates the sensory receptors in the tendon, which sends a message to the spinal cord. The spinal cord then responds by sending a motor signal back to the calf muscles, causing them to contract and resulting in a quick, involuntary movement of the foot.

   Clinically, the Achilles reflex is used to assess the integrity of the nerves and muscle functions of the lower leg. It is part of a routine neurological examination and can provide valuable information about the state of the peripheral nervous system. A normal response includes a quick, brisk movement of the foot into plantar flexion.

   Abnormal responses, such as absent or diminished reflexes, can indicate nerve damage or dysfunction, such as S1 nerve root compression, peripheral neuropathy, or certain neurological disorders.

   Overall, the Achilles reflex is a useful diagnostic tool to assess the health and functioning of the nerves and muscles of the lower leg.

2. A contraction of the calf muscles when the tendo calcaneus is sharply struck, ankle r.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for ACHILLES REFLEX

• zchilles reflex
• schilles reflex
• wchilles reflex
• qchilles reflex
• axhilles reflex
• avhilles reflex
• afhilles reflex
• adhilles reflex
• acgilles reflex
• acbilles reflex
• acnilles reflex
• acjilles reflex
• acuilles reflex
• acyilles reflex
• achulles reflex
• achjlles reflex
• achklles reflex
• acholles reflex
• ach9lles reflex
• ach8lles reflex

Etymology of ACHILLES REFLEX

The word "Achilles reflex" is named after the legendary Greek hero Achilles. The etymology of the word traces back to Greek mythology and the story of Achilles' invulnerability. According to the myth, Achilles was a powerful warrior who was said to be invincible, except for his heel, which was his only weak spot. During the Trojan War, he was struck by a poisonous arrow in his heel and eventually died.

The term "Achilles reflex" refers to a medical reflex test that evaluates the functionality of a person's calf muscle and the corresponding nerves. When the Achilles tendon is tapped, it causes the calf muscle to contract and the foot to move. This reflex is known as the "Achilles reflex" due to its connection to the Greek myth of Achilles and his vulnerable heel.