What can I use instead of a reflex hammer?

What can I use instead of a reflex hammer?

When checking knee reflexes, press down on the dorsum of the foot while tapping the patellar tendon. This maneuver overcomes inhibition of the reflex, so that a brisk tap with the side of the index finger elicits a good response. Using the index finger avoids the need for a reflex hammer, which may upset the child.

Which is the best reflex hammer?

5 Best Medical Reflex Hammers | Reviews & Buyers Guide

1. MDF Tromner Neurological Reflex Hammer (Editors Choice*) view on amazon.
2. MDF Professional-Grade Taylor 2.0 Neurological Reflex Hammer. view on amazon.
3. MDF Babinski Telescoping 2.0 Neurological Reflex Hammer.
4. Prestige Taylor Percussion Hammer.
5. ADC Taylor Neuro Hammer.

What is the doctors reflex hammer called?

Taylor
The Taylor or tomahawk reflex hammer was designed by John Madison Taylor in 1888 and is the most well known reflex hammer in the USA. It consists of a triangular rubber component which is attached to a flat metallic handle.

How much do reflex hammers cost?

A reflex hammer is a medical instrument used to test reflexes of the deep tendons to check for abnormalities of the nervous system. Today’s models often provide easy reflex testing that causes minimal patient discomfort. Reflex hammers typically cost around USD$15 to $60.

Why do doctors hit you in the knee?

To test your reflexes, your doctor will use a rubber hammer to tap firmly on the tendon. If certain reflexes are decreased or absent, it will show what nerve might be compressed. Not all nerve roots have a reflex associated with them.

What is Babinski hammer?

Babinski telescoping reflex hammer is designed for testing reflexes and the nervous system. It is equipped with a pointed end piece for testing nervous system response and a rubber head for reflex reaction. A unique telescoping design allows the user to carry the hammer in a pocket.

Do nurses use reflex hammers?

The reflex hammer remains a hallmark of any diagnostic kit that a doctor, nurse or other medical professional might use.

Where do you hit a reflex hammer?

Use a key, wooden stick, or reflex hammer handle to lightly stroke from the lateral to the medial section of the abdomen above (T8-T9) and below (T11-T12) the umbilicus. The normal response is local contraction of the ipsilateral rectus abdominis muscle.

Is clonus a spasticity?

Spasticity often occurs with clonus. It involves long-term muscular tightness. Spasticity, as seen in clonus, is caused by damaged nerves among the brain, spinal cord, and muscles. This abnormal activity is thought to disrupt muscle movement by causing involuntary contractions, stiffness, and pain.

Is a percussion hammer a reflex hammer?

The history of the reflex hammer begins in 1875 with the discovery of deep tendon reflexes by two physicians–Wilhelm Heinrich Erb and Karl Friedrich Otto Westphal. Erb went further, recommending that a percussion hammer be used to elicit the reflex response.