GORDON REFLEX Meaning and
Definition
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The Gordon reflex is a neurologic phenomenon named after the Scottish neurologist, William Robertson Gordon. It refers to a specific reflex action involving the contraction of the muscles in response to gentle pressure being applied to the lower abdomen or bladder region. This reflex is primarily observed in neurological examinations and is indicative of an intact spinal cord reflex arc.
The Gordon reflex is commonly assessed by a healthcare professional administering a firm, controlled and consistent pressure to the lower abdomen or bladder area using their fingers or a reflex hammer. Normally, this produces a reflex contraction of the abdominal muscles in order to protect the organs within the abdominal cavity. However, in cases where there may be damage or dysfunction within the spinal cord, such as a spinal cord injury or a herniated disc, the reflex may be absent or significantly diminished.
Clinically, presence or absence of the Gordon reflex can provide valuable information regarding the functioning of the lower part of the spinal cord. Its presence typically suggests an intact spinal cord circuitry from the sensory receptors in the bladder to the motor neurons of the abdominal muscles. Conversely, its absence may indicate an interruption or impairment in this circuit, requiring further investigation and potentially affecting the patient's ability to control bladder function.
Overall, the Gordon reflex is an important neurologic reflex that helps clinicians evaluate the integrity of the spinal cord, providing valuable insights into potential underlying pathologies affecting the lower body's sensory and motor functions.
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Dorsal flexion of the great toe produced by firm lateral pressure on the calf muscles.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for GORDON REFLEX
- fordon reflex
- vordon reflex
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- hordon reflex
- yordon reflex
- tordon reflex
- girdon reflex
- gkrdon reflex
- glrdon reflex
- gprdon reflex
- g0rdon reflex
- g9rdon reflex
- goedon reflex
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- go5don reflex
- go4don reflex
- gorson reflex
- gorxon reflex
Etymology of GORDON REFLEX
The term "Gordon reflex" refers to a specific neurological reflex, also known as the sympathetic skin response. It is named after British physiologist Alexander Robertson Gordon, who first described and studied the reflex in the early 20th century.
The word "reflex" comes from the Latin word "reflexus", meaning "turned back" or "reflection". In physiology, a reflex refers to an involuntary response to a stimulus.
As for "Gordon", it simply refers to Alexander Robertson Gordon, the scientist who discovered and documented the reflex.
