DEEP REFLEX Meaning and
Definition
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Deep reflex is a term used in medical and anatomical contexts to describe a specific type of reflex action that occurs in response to a stimulus or tap on a muscle tendon. Also known as tendon reflex or myotatic reflex, it involves the involuntary contraction of a muscle when its corresponding tendon is stretched. These reflexes are primarily controlled by the neuromuscular system and are mediated by sensory information transmitted through the spinal cord.
The deep reflex is a fundamental physiological mechanism that helps maintain muscle tone, balance, and coordination. It is a quick and involuntary response that occurs at the spinal level without the involvement of conscious thought processes. This reflex is a crucial component in assessing the integrity of the nervous system, as any abnormal response may indicate underlying neurological disorders or damage to the spinal cord.
A common example of a deep reflex is the patellar reflex, also known as the knee-jerk reflex. When the patellar tendon, located just below the kneecap, is tapped, it stretches the quadriceps muscle group in the thigh. Consequently, the muscle spindle fibers within the quadriceps are stimulated, leading to a rapid contraction that momentarily extends the lower leg. This reflex can be elicited by a healthcare professional during a physical examination to assess the health of the nervous system, as an abnormal response may suggest an issue with the spinal cord or associated nerves.
Ultimately, deep reflexes are essential components of human physiology, enabling the body to maintain stability and react rapidly to external or internal stimuli.
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Tendon r., an involuntary muscular contraction following percussion of a tendon or bone.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for DEEP REFLEX
- seep reflex
- xeep reflex
- ceep reflex
- feep reflex
- reep reflex
- eeep reflex
- dwep reflex
- dsep reflex
- ddep reflex
- drep reflex
- d4ep reflex
- d3ep reflex
- dewp reflex
- desp reflex
- dedp reflex
- derp reflex
- de4p reflex
- de3p reflex
- deeo reflex
- deel reflex
Etymology of DEEP REFLEX
The etymology of the term "deep reflex" can be broken down into two parts: "deep" and "reflex".
1. "Deep": The word "deep" comes from the Old English word "deop", which means "profound or extending far down from the surface". It can also be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "deupaz", meaning "deep or hollow". Over time, "deep" has retained its meaning of something extending far below the surface or having great depth.
2. "Reflex": The word "reflex" is derived from the Latin word "reflexus", which means "bent or turned back". It can be traced back to the Latin verb "reflectere", which combines "re-" (back) and "flectere" (to bend). "Reflexus" was used to describe something that bends or rebounds back.
Similar spelling word for DEEP REFLEX
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