Answered by SecondMedic Expert
Pulmonologist · Respiratory/Chest Medicine
Verified
A reflex hammer is a small, lightweight hammer that is used to test for reflexes. When the hammer is tapped lightly against the skin on the patient's knee or foot, it causes a reflexive contraction of the muscle.
By testing for reflexes in different parts of the body, physicians can get an idea of how well the nervous system is functioning. For example, a reflex hammer may be used to test for response in the muscles of the chest wall. If there is a decrease in response or no response at all, it may be an indication that there is something wrong with the patient's nervous system.
