Stretches for tendon reflexes are also known as deep tendon reflexes, according to the National Institutes of Health. These stretches are performed as part of a neurological examination. The muscle stretch receptors will be stimulated by pressure to the tendon via a tendon hammer or other instrument. Use a brisk tapping action while using your wrist and not your arm for most of the stretches.
Triceps Tendon Reflex
The triceps reflex will test and stretch the cervical nerves C7 and C8, according to the National Institutes of Health. Stretching these muscle receptors will provide feedback regarding the motor and sensory pathways within these spinal nerves. Have the patient sit upright with arms placed on thighs. Or, cradle the patient's arm with your forearm and hand. Place the right arm so the elbow touches the body and the wrist is lying on the thigh's inner portion. Briskly tap the triceps tendon with a reflex hammer. Notice whether or not the forearm involuntarily extends itself. Repeat this stretching maneuver with the left arm. If the arm is void of movement, perform the test again while having the patient making a fist with the opposite side hand.
Patellar Tendon Reflex
Stretch the quadriceps muscles by doing a patellar, or kneecap, tendon reflex. This tendon reflex is also known as a "knee jerk reaction" according to the National Institutes of Health. Prepare the patient by having them intertwine all fingers. Have the patient sit upright with legs over the side of a bed or examining table. Place one hand on the right leg thigh muscles. Feel the contraction. Reinforce the patellar tendon reflex stretch by saying "pull" immediately before making the tapping action. Have the patient try to pull their fingers apart. Gently and briskly tap below the patella with the reflex hammer. If reflexes operate properly, the lower leg will flex. This stretch can also be done with the patient lying in bed. Gently bend, or flex, both knees by placing your forearm underneath.
Mandibular Tendon Reflex
The mandibular tendon reflex, jaw jerk, is a deep tendon reflex that stretches the mandibular joint muscles known as the masticatory muscles, according to the National Institutes of Health. Have the patient sit upright on a firm surface. Gently relax the jaw so it is one-third open. Place your right index finger on the relaxed jaw. Briskly tap on the jaw. Make note of how quickly the mandible joint flexes.
Plantar Tendon Reflex
The stretch reflex affecting the plantar tendon can help detect diseases of the spinal cord and brain. Have the patient sit upright with their legs hanging over the side of an examining table or bed. Gently grab a hold of the right leg. Loosen the ankle muscles by gently flexing, according to the University of Utah. Gently stroke or scratch the bottom of the foot. Start at the heel and advance to the ball of the foot. End at the base of the big toe. An abnormal response occurs when the big toe extends itself with the remaining toes fanning out. Normal response is bending of all toes.
