Neurological response to percussion of tendons which produces muscular contraction as demonstrated by the patellar and Achilles reflexes.
An automatic motor response elicited by stimulating stretch receptors in subcutaneous tissues surrounding joints and tendons. The assessment of DTRs typically is made by striking a tendon (e.g., Achilles, patellar, biceps, triceps, or brachioradialis tendons) with a weighted hammer. Brisk or hyperactive responses are seen in conditions such as hyperthyroidism, stroke, pre-eclampsia, or spastic disorders; diminished responses may be seen in patients with hypothyroidism, drug intoxication, and flaccid neuromuscular disorders, among others.
The involuntary jerks that are normally produced at certain spots on a limb when the tendons are tapped with a hammer. Reflexes are tested as part of the standard neurologic exam.