How Do You Spell RADIAL REFLEX?

1. Radial reflex is a physiological response characterized by the automatic contraction of the muscles associated with the radial nerve when the corresponding reflex arc is stimulated. The radial nerve is a major nerve in the arm responsible for the movement and sensation of the forearm muscles and the back of the hand.

   The reflex arc, in the case of radial reflex, involves sensory receptors located within the muscle spindle fibers of the muscles associated with the radial nerve. When these receptors detect a change in muscle length or tension, they generate nerve impulses that are transmitted via sensory neurons to the spinal cord. Within the spinal cord, these sensory neurons connect synaptically with motor neurons that innervate the muscles, causing them to contract in response.

   The purpose of radial reflex is to protect the body from potential harm by promoting a rapid and automatic response to changes in muscle length or tension. For instance, when a sudden stretch or excessive tension is applied to the muscles associated with the radial nerve, such as when the tendons are tapped or the muscle fibers are stretched, the radial reflex is triggered, causing an immediate contraction of these muscles. This reflexive contraction helps prevent further damage by limiting the range of motion or restraining the limb from movement.

   In summary, radial reflex is an automatic contraction of the muscles innervated by the radial nerve that occurs in response to stimulation of the corresponding reflex arc, aiming to protect the body from potential harm.

2. On tapping the lower end of the radius flexion of the forearm occurs, and sometimes, on strong percussion, flexion of the fingers; see inverted radial r.

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

Common Misspellings for RADIAL REFLEX

The term "radial reflex" consists of two parts: "radial" and "reflex".

1. "Radial" comes from the Latin word "radius", meaning "spoke of a wheel" or "beam of light". In anatomy, it refers to the radial bone in the forearm or anything related to it. The term "radial" is often used in medical contexts to describe structures or movements related to the radius.

2. "Reflex" comes from the Latin word "reflexus", which means "bent back" or "to reflect". It refers to an involuntary response or reaction to a stimulus, usually through the nervous system. Reflexes are automatic, rapid, and purposeful actions designed to protect or maintain the body's stability.