How Do You Spell CONTROLATERAL REFLEX?

1. A controlateral reflex refers to a specific type of reflex action that occurs on the opposite side of the body in response to a stimulus. It is also known as a contralateral reflex. These reflexes are primarily seen in the nervous system and are a crucial component of the body's involuntary response mechanisms.

   When a controlateral reflex is triggered, the stimulus is detected by receptors in the peripheral nervous system, such as the skin or sensory organs. The sensory impulses are then transmitted to the spinal cord, where they are processed by interneurons. From there, motor impulses are sent to the muscles or glands on the opposite side of the body, leading to the reflexive action.

   For instance, the withdrawal reflex is a notable example of a controlateral reflex. If someone touches a hot object with their left hand, the reflex causes the hand to immediately pull away from the source of heat. In this case, the stimulus is detected by sensory receptors in the left hand, and the reflex action occurs in the muscles of the right arm and hand, causing them to initiate the withdrawal.

   Controlateral reflexes are an essential part of the body's defensive and survival mechanisms. They operate rapidly and involuntarily, allowing for quick responses to potentially harmful situations. Through their intricate neural circuitry, controlateral reflexes efficiently coordinate the body's movement and maintain balance and protective reflexes.

2. When one lower extremity is passively flexed a similar movement occurs on the other side, or if this side is already flexed an extension may occur; noted by Brudzinski in meningitis in children.

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

Common Misspellings for CONTROLATERAL REFLEX

The word "controlateral reflex" consists of two main components: "contralateral" and "reflex".

1. Contralateral: The term "contralateral" is derived from two Latin words: "contra", meaning "against", and "lateralis", meaning "side". In anatomy and physiology, contralateral refers to structures or movements occurring on the opposite side of the body. For example, the right arm responding to a stimulus on the left side of the body would be termed a contralateral response.

2. Reflex: The word "reflex" has Latin origins, derived from the Latin verb "reflexus", meaning "to bend or turn back". In this context, a reflex refers to an involuntary response or movement carried out by the body, typically as a reaction to a stimulus.