Question

The Achilles reflex tests nerve roots S1 and S2 (tibial nerve). What is the mnemonic for remembering the nerve roots S1 and S2?

1) S1, S2, buckle my shoe
2) S1, S2, touch my shoe
3) S1, S2, kick my shoe
4) S1, S2, tie my shoe

Answer 1

The mnemonic to remember the nerve roots S1 and S2 in the Achilles reflex test is "S1, S2, buckle my shoe." This reflex assesses the function of the LMN system and is used during a neurological exam to evaluate the integrity of the sacral nerves through the tibial nerve.

Step-by-step explanation:

The mnemonic for remembering the nerve roots S1 and S2 in the context of the Achilles reflex is "S1, S2, buckle my shoe". This reflex tests the integrity of the lower sacral nerves through the tibial nerve. When the Achilles tendon is tapped with a reflex hammer, it quickly stretches the muscle, activating the muscle spindle. The signal travels via the sensory neuron into the spinal cord and then directly synapses on a motor neuron in the ventral horn, resulting in the muscle contracting. This reflex is important for maintaining stability when muscles are stretched, indicating proper lower motor neuron (LMN) function within the neurological exam.

In contrast, superficial reflexes like the plantar reflex test for the Babinski sign and assess neuromuscular function via different mechanisms, involving a change from dorsiflexion of the foot and toe extension in infants, to toe curling and moderate plantar flexion in adults, due to descending corticospinal tract input. In general, reflex testing, whether deep tendon reflexes or superficial reflexes, is a critical part of the neurological exam to evaluate sensory and motor pathways.