Exam
Babinski Reflex
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Babinski Reflex
, Babinski Sign, Extensor Plantar Reflex, Brissaud Reflex
Technique
Using a blunt tool (e.g. reflex hammer handle) stroke the sole of the foot from heel to base of toes
Findings
Normal Response in over age 2 years (down-going toes, Negative Babinksi)
Plantar flexion of great toe and small toe
Abnormal Babinski Test (up-going toes, Positive Babinksi)
Dorsiflexion of the great toe
Splaying or fanning or all toes
May be associated with ankle dorsiflexion, and knee/thigh flexion
Abnormal: Brissaud Reflex
Tensor Fasciae Lata contraction (lateral thigh) in response to stroking sole of foot in Babinski Test
Useful to observe when great toe movement cannot be observed (e.g. toe amputation)
Interpretation
Positive Babinski Reflex is normal in newborns and may be seen in normal children up to age 2 years
Suggests
Upper Motor Neuron Lesion
(pyramidal tract deficit) in age over 2 years
References
Degowin and Degowin (1987) Bedside Diagnostic Exam, Macmillan Publishing, New York, p. 818
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