Chaddock Reflex

Original Editor - Amr Abd El-Razeq Top Contributors - Amr Abd El-Razeq and Kim Jackson

Introduction[edit | edit source]

The Chaddock reflex introduced as the External Malleolar sign in 1911 by Charles Gilbert Chaddock is an alternative to the Babinski reflex[1]. Both reflexes test the integrity of the corticospinal tract(CST). Both reflexes are easy to optain as the don't require major cooperation from the patient.

Purpose[edit | edit source]

While the Babinski reflex is more commonly used in a typical neurological exam,an alternative such as the Chaddock reflex can be utilized when the patient shows a significant withdrawal response to plantar stimulation during a Babinski reflex.

Equipment[edit | edit source]

Similar to the Babinski reflex ,a dull instrument such as a tongue depressor, or the end of a reflex hammer are used. A sharp tool isn't recommended as it can cause pain or injury.

The patient[edit | edit source]

The patient should be warned that the sensation may become a bit uncomfortable, or that they could feel a tickling sensation, although it is less likely than the Babinski sign which requires plantar stimulation. The examiner should also make sure that the dorsolateral aspect of the foot is well and free of any injuries or lesions.

Technique[edit | edit source]

The reflex is obtained by stimulation of the dorsolateral aspect of the foot from the posterior part of the skin just inferior and anterior to the lateral malleolus and along the lateral edge of the foot. The positive sign similar to Babinski is flexion of the big toe and fanning of the other toes indicating an upper motor neuron lesion specifically the CST.

Chaddock Reflex

[2]

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

  • The Chaddock reflex is used to test for dysfunctions along the corticospinal tract[3].
  • Downward deviation of the toes, or absence of a response is considered a natural response, and suggests that the CST is intact.
  • Infant CST is incompletely myelinated, as such a positive Chaddock or Babinski reflex in the absence of other neurological signs is considered benign up to 2 years of age[4].
  • The advantage of the Chaddock reflex over the Babinski is that it minimizes withdrawal resulting from plantar stimulation.

References[edit | edit source]

  1. Goetz CG. History of the extensor plantar response: Babinski and Chaddock signs. InSeminars in neurology 2002 (Vol. 22, No. 04, pp. 391-398). Copyright© 2002 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA. Tel.:+ 1 (212) 584-4662.
  2. PalmerNMS. Pathological Reflexes Chaddock's Sign. Available from: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PFoKzgLxFzw [last accessed 21/2/2020]
  3. Loo SF, Justin NK, Lee RA, Hew YC, Lim KS, Tan CT. Differentiating extensor plantar response in pathological and normal population. Annals of Indian Academy of Neurology. 2018 Apr;21(2):144.
  4. D KUMHAR GH, Dua T, Gupta P. Plantar response in infancy. European Journal of Paediatric Neurology. 2002 Nov 1;6(6):321-5.