How Do You Spell TENDO ACHILLIS REFLEX?

Pronunciation: [tˈɛndə͡ʊ ɐt͡ʃˈɪliz ɹˈiːflɛks] (IPA)

The tendon at the back of our ankle is called the "tendo Achillis reflex". It is spelled as /ˈtɛndoʊ əˈkɪliz rɪˌflɛks/, with the stress on the second syllable of "Achillis". The word "tendo" is pronounced with an open E sound, while "Achillis" is pronounced as /əˈkɪliz/ with a schwa sound. The reflex refers to the involuntary movement we make when our heel is tapped, activating the stretch receptors in the Achilles tendon. Correct spelling is important in medical terminology to ensure clear communication and understanding among healthcare professionals.

TENDO ACHILLIS REFLEX Meaning and Definition

1. The term "Achilles reflex," also known as the "Achilles tendon reflex" or "tendo Achillis reflex," refers to a neurophysiological reflex action that occurs when the Achilles tendon at the back of the ankle is tapped or stretched. This reflex is a component of the monosynaptic reflex arc mediated by the S1 and S2 spinal nerve roots.

   The typical procedure to elicit the Achilles reflex involves tapping the Achilles tendon just above its insertion point on the calcaneus bone using a reflex hammer. This produces a sudden stretch of the tendon, stimulating the mechanoreceptors (specifically, the muscle spindle fibers) located in the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles. The muscle spindle fibers detect the stretch and rapidly transmit signals through the afferent nerve fibers to the spinal cord.

   The spinal cord processes these signals and generates a response by activating the motor neurons. As a result, the triceps surae muscles (gastrocnemius and soleus) contract, causing plantar flexion. The reflexive contraction of these muscles causes the foot to momentarily point downward.

   The Achilles reflex serves as an important diagnostic tool in clinical examinations to assess the integrity of the S1 and S2 nerve roots and the corresponding spinal segments. It helps evaluate the functioning of the peripheral nervous system by examining the presence, absence, or exaggeration of the reflex. Deviations from the normal response can indicate various neurological conditions or injuries, such as peripheral neuropathies, spinal cord lesions, or certain lower motor neuron disorders. The Achilles reflex is often tested alongside other reflexes to gather comprehensive information about the patient's neurological status.

2. Achilles r.

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

Common Misspellings for TENDO ACHILLIS REFLEX

• rendo achillis reflex
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• tenfo achillis reflex