Triceps Reflex

Triceps Reflex

What is the "Triceps Reflex" used for?

  • C7-C8 Nerve Root Reflex
  • Triceps brachii muscle (Radial nerve)

How to perform the "Triceps Reflex"?

  • Patient Position: Seated looking away from the tested side
  • Position of Examiner: Supporting the patient’s shoulder abducted to 90° and the elbow flexed to 90°
  • Evaluative Procedure: The distal triceps brachii tendon is tapped with the reflex hammer.

What is the positive result?

Grade Response
0 No reflex elicited
+1 Hyporeflexia: Reflex elicited with reinforcement (precontracting the muscle)
+2 Normal response
+3 Hyperreflexia (brisk)
+4 Hyperactive with clonus

References