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A clinical hammer (reflex hammer) is mainly used in medical school to assess deep tendon reflexes and help evaluate the nervous system.

Common uses

• Biceps reflex (C5–C6): tests the musculocutaneous nerve.

• Triceps reflex (C7–C8): mainly C7.

• Supinator/brachioradialis reflex (C5–C6): mainly C6.

• Knee/patellar reflex (L2–L4): mainly L4.

• Ankle/Achilles reflex (S1–S2): mainly S1.

What students learn to assess

The reflex examination can help identify:

• Upper motor neuron lesions: exaggerated/brisk reflexes, sometimes with clonus.

• Lower motor neuron or peripheral nerve lesions: reduced or absent reflexes.

• Asymmetry: a difference between the two sides can be clinically significant.

Other uses

Depending on the hammer design, it may also be used to elicit plantar responses or assess other superficial reflexes.

Tip for medical students: Strike the tendon with a quick, controlled tap while the muscle is relaxed, and always compare both sides.