PLANTAR REFLEX Meaning and
Definition
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The plantar reflex, also known as the Babinski reflex, is a neurological response observed during physical examination that assesses the integrity and function of the motor pathways within the central nervous system. It involves evaluating the response of the plantar surface of the foot to stimulation, typically with the use of a blunt instrument or finger.
In a normal plantar reflex, when the sole of the foot is stimulated, the usual response is the toes flexing downwards. This reaction is known as the flexion or negative Babinski sign and is considered a normal adult response. It signifies a healthy functioning corticospinal tract, which is responsible for the voluntary movement from the brain to the spinal cord.
However, in cases where the central nervous system is damaged or impaired, a different response is observed. In an abnormal or positive Babinski sign, stimulation of the sole provokes an extension of the big toe and fanning of the other toes. This response, known as a positive Babinski sign, typically indicates an underlying neurological disorder, such as spinal cord injury, brain lesion, or peripheral nerve damage.
The plantar reflex is often used as a diagnostic tool to assess various conditions affecting the nervous system. It is particularly useful in identifying abnormalities or lesions in the upper motor neuron pathways and can assist healthcare professionals in making accurate diagnoses.
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A flexion of the toes following scratching or tickling the sole of the foot; sometimes dorsal flexion of the foot is produced.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for PLANTAR REFLEX
- olantar reflex
- llantar reflex
- -lantar reflex
- 0lantar reflex
- pkantar reflex
- ppantar reflex
- poantar reflex
- plzntar reflex
- plsntar reflex
- plwntar reflex
- plqntar reflex
- plabtar reflex
- plamtar reflex
- plajtar reflex
- plahtar reflex
- planrar reflex
- planfar reflex
- plangar reflex
- planyar reflex
Etymology of PLANTAR REFLEX
The word "plantar" comes from the Latin word "planta", which means the sole of the foot. The term "reflex" refers to an involuntary action or response generated by the nervous system. Therefore, the term "plantar reflex" refers to the involuntary movement of the toes or foot when a specific area on the sole of the foot is stimulated.
Similar spelling words for PLANTAR REFLEX
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