Pectoral reflex is an example of deep tendon reflex.
Method of eliciting pectoral reflex
Pectoral reflex is elicited by striking the index finger
placed on the inferior part of the pectoralis muscle tendon ,that is close to the insertion
Innervation of
pectoral reflex
It is innervated by C5. T1 segment of spinal cord
Clinical significance of pectoral reflex
Exaggerated in corticospinal tract lesion above C5
Myelopathy from cervical spondylosis is usually accompanied
by hyperreflexia of the upper-extremity deep tendon reflexes .The presence of a
hyperactive pectoralis reflex is specific for lesions of the upper cervical
spinal cord. Examination of upper-extremity DTRs can also help in planning the
appropriate levels for surgical decompression in patients with multilevel
spondylosis and myelopathy.
