Hawaii Massage License Practice Exam

Which of the following is a common reflex tested in physical exams?

1. Knee-jerk reflex

2. Gastrocnemius reflex

3. Sartorius reflex

4. Rotator cuff reflex

The correct answer is: Knee-jerk reflex

The knee-jerk reflex, commonly known as the patellar reflex, is a well-established and frequently tested reflex in physical exams. This reflex occurs when a doctor taps the knee just below the kneecap, eliciting a sudden extension of the leg. This response is mediated by a simple spinal arc and serves as a crucial indicator of neurological function in the lower limb. The knee-jerk reflex is often used because it is easy to assess and provides valuable information about the integrity of the nervous system, particularly the L2 to L4 segments of the spinal cord. Its rapid, involuntary reaction makes it a standard component in a neurological examination to help assess the functioning of the central and peripheral nervous systems. In contrast, the gastrocnemius reflex pertains to another area of the body, primarily assessing the lower leg's functionality but is less commonly focused on in standard reflex tests. The sartorius and rotator cuff reflexes are not typically recognized as standard reflexes tested during a physical examination, making the knee-jerk reflex the most prominent and relevant choice among the options provided.