[Latency values of 248 H reflexes in 124 normal subjects]

Area of Science:

• Neurophysiology
• Electromyography
• Motor control

Context:

• The Hoffmann reflex (H reflex) is a valuable electrodiagnostic tool.
• It serves as the electrical equivalent of the myotatic reflex.
• Assessing the H reflex is crucial for evaluating the integrity of reflex arcs in neuroexaminations.

Purpose:

• To establish normative latency values for the H reflex.
• To detail the technique for eliciting the H reflex via tibial nerve stimulation.
• To highlight the importance of standardized H reflex measurements in clinical neurophysiology.

Summary:

• This study analyzed 248 H reflexes from 124 healthy subjects, stimulating the tibial nerve.
• Latency values ranged from 23.6 ms to 29.8 ms, with a mean of 27.6 ± 1.41 ms.
• The findings provide a reference range for H reflex latencies in a healthy adult population.

Impact:

• Contributes to the standardization of H reflex testing protocols.
• Aids in the accurate interpretation of H reflex results for neurological diagnoses.
• Supports the use of H reflex as an adjunct diagnostic measure in clinical practice.