Jenbrassik Case Study

1. The Jendrassik maneuver played a major role on the patellar reflex. One of the prevailing hypotheses has to deal with the alpha-gamma co-activation theory. It states that the alpha motor neurons activates the motor tone, which leads to the spindles providing feedback to the brain. This process is done by the gamma motor neurons, who are in charge of controlling the stimulation of the cerebellum. Also, both the alpha and gamma motor neurons meet at the same effector muscles. Furthermore, when the extrafusal fibers of the muscle spindle contract, the intrafusal fibers change length in correlation to the muscle tone to activate the feedback to the brain, which is done by the gamma neurons. The feedback process is performed by afferent neurons located in the spinocerebellar tract, in which they relay the message to the central nervous system regarding the length and tension of the muscle fibers. …show more content…
The second hypothesis regarding the Jendrassik maneuver’s role on the patellar reflex is that it allows people to calm their nerves, and not focus on what is occurring. People who are nervous tend to subconsciously keep their muscles tightened, and they also have high sympathetic tone present. When this occurs, the patellar reflex when activated will have a reduced response. However, if you were to implement the Jendrassik maneuver it will allow the patient to take their mind off of the process, which will allow for a greater overall response. By focusing on the other muscles required to perform the Jendrassik maneuver, the patient is taking their mind off the patellar reflex, which will allow for it to occur both naturally and at heightened response