How Do You Spell ACROMIAL REFLEX?

1. The acromial reflex is a physiological response triggered by a sudden, sharp tap on the acromion process, which is the prominent bony protrusion on the shoulder blade. This reflex is a type of a deep tendon reflex and is indicative of the integrity and functioning of the supraspinatus muscle, particularly its innervation by the suprascapular nerve.

   When a tap is applied to the acromion process, sensory receptors known as muscle spindles within the supraspinatus muscle are stimulated. These muscle spindles detect the change in muscle length and send signals to the spinal cord. In response, the spinal cord initiates efferent signals that travel back to the supraspinatus muscle, causing a contraction or twitch reflex.

   The acromial reflex is significant in assessing the neurological status of the supraspinatus muscle and its nerve supply. If the reflex is absent or diminished, it may indicate a nerve pathology, such as a lesion, compression, or damage to the suprascapular nerve. Common causes of such nerve dysfunction include trauma to the shoulder, entrapment syndromes, or neurological disorders.

   Clinically, the acromial reflex is elicited during a physical examination as part of evaluating shoulder function and integrity. Its absence may prompt further investigations to identify the underlying cause of nerve dysfunction and guide appropriate treatments, rehabilitation, or interventions to restore normal shoulder mechanics and function.

2. Flexion and pronation of the forearm when the tip of the shoulder is smartly struck.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for ACROMIAL REFLEX

The term "acromial reflex" is not commonly used in medical or anatomical literature. There is no established etymology for this specific term. However, by breaking down the components of the word, we can understand its possible origins:

1. Acromial: Pertaining to the acromion, which is a part of the scapula (shoulder blade) that extends over the shoulder joint.

2. Reflex: A rapid, involuntary response to a stimulus.

Based on the meaning of the individual words, it can be inferred that the term "acromial reflex" would potentially refer to an involuntary response or reaction originating from the acromion region. It is important to note, though, that this term is not widely recognized or used in the medical field.

Plural form of ACROMIAL REFLEX is ACROMIAL REFLEXES