Test: DTR Triceps-Brachii reflex

Video Link

Background/Purpose

The triceps reflex, a deep tendon reflex, is a reflex as it elicits involuntary contraction of the triceps brachii muscle. It is initiated by the Cervical (of the neck region) spinal nerve 7 nerve root (the small segment of the nerve that emerges from the spinal cord). The reflex is tested as part of the neurological examination to assess the sensory and motor pathways within the C6 and C7 spinal nerves.

Procedure

Support the patient's forearm by cradling it with yours or by placing it on the thigh, with the arm midway between flexion and extension. Identify the triceps tendon at its insertion on the olecranon, and tap just above the insertion. There should be extension of the forearm.
Grade
0 = no response; always abnormal
1+ = a slight but definitely present response; may or may not be normal
2+ = a brisk response; normal
3+ = a very brisk response; may or may not be normal
4+ = a tap elicits a repeating reflex (clonus); always abnormal
Performed: Unilaterally

Dialog

Tap the tricpes brachii tendon near the elbow.

Criteria

• Normal reflex jerk response. +1 to +3

Measurement

0.00

LOINC Code

0

Scale/Grading

Pass/Fail