Reflex hammer

Reflex hammer is a medical instrument used by practitioners to test deep tendon reflexes. Testing for reflexes is an important part of the neurological physical examination in order to detect abnormalities in the central or peripheral nervous system.

History

The reflex hammer was invented by John Madison Taylor in 1888. He was an American neurologist who wanted to standardize the method of testing reflexes. The Taylor hammer, as it came to be known, was the first specially designed instrument for such a purpose.

Types of Reflex Hammers

There are several types of reflex hammers that are commonly used in clinical practice.

Taylor Hammer

The Taylor Hammer is the most commonly used reflex hammer in the United States. It is a triangular rubber head, mounted on a flat metal handle.

Babinski Hammer

The Babinski Hammer is a two-headed hammer that was designed by Joseph Babinski, a French neurologist. It has a small metal head and a handle that can be used to elicit the plantar reflex.

Troemner Hammer

The Troemner Hammer is a heavy, large, two-headed hammer that is often used in neurology. It is designed to elicit myotatic reflexes and plantar response with less effort and greater patient comfort.

Use

The reflex hammer is used to test the responses of the deep tendons. These responses can reveal whether the spinal cord is transmitting nerve impulses properly. The hammer is used to strike the tendon directly or strike the fingers of the examiner, who is pinching the tendon.

See Also

• Neurological examination
• Deep tendon reflex

References

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