Science General · Question
Which of these is a type of stretch/deep tendon reflex?
Answer
Ankle jerk reflex
The story behind the answer
Ankle jerk reflex is a classic deep tendon (stretch) reflex. Tapping the Achilles tendon suddenly stretches the gastrocnemius–soleus muscle, activating muscle spindles. Ia sensory fibers carry the signal to the S1 (±S2) spinal cord, which monosynaptically excites alpha motor neurons, causing plantarflexion. Clinically, it tests the integrity of the S1 root.
The other options aren’t deep tendon reflexes: the gag reflex is a brainstem cranial reflex (CN IX/X), the pupillary light reflex is autonomic (CN II/III), and the scratch reflex is a superficial,