I had this test today although i never knew what it was called till now my doctor beleives that a disc in my neck is protuding since doing this test, he is sending me for a urgent mri (within next 2 weeks) and looking to do surgery with in next 2 months pretty amazing what u can tell from flicking someones finger lol
kerry x
Had this test today and found this article after hearing the dr say I was positive for the Hoffman reflex and looked like Tromner signs. He went from joking around to frowning and having his med students try out their reflex testing on me. I also had hyper reflexes in my knees and didn't react right on my feet. So by what I'm reading looks like it might be time to freak out a little.
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Lisa,
Thanks for this informative piece. I had never heard of these two tests and none of the neurologists that I have seen have ever done the finger flexing tests. Since I have extensive spinal damage and have had 3 laminectomies and an anterior/posterior fusion I imagine these tests might not be valid or helpful for me.
It will be interesting to learn how many of your readers have had this test and what the findings were. I'm glad you included the fact that these tests are not always reliable indicators of MS or other illnesses. Too many times a person can have a single test taken and be given a diagnosis or possible diagnosis based upon that single finding.
Hope you are staying warm and having a healthy 2011.
Best,
Denise
Hi Denise,
I too am enjoying learning about the significance of these neuro tests. I always want to know what the doctor is looking for.
You know, it was actually my physical therapist who explained this particular test/sign to me. She was testing me at our first meeting and elicited some signs that even my doctor had not. She was much more forceful in her testing of various muscles and such.
I am doing well. Keeping extraordinarily busy, but it's all good. Hope the same for you. :)