Babinski Test

Other Names

• Babinski Sign
• Babinski Reflex
• Plantar Reflex

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Purpose

• Test the integrity of the cortical spinal tract (CST)

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Description

Illustration of normal and abnormal Babinski reflex

• Examiner runs instrument up the lateral plantar side of the foot from the heel to the toe
• Also run across metatarsal pads to the base of the great toe
• Positive test
  • Dorsiflexion (upward movement) of the big toe and fanning of the other toes
• Normal test (negative)
  • No movement

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Pathology

• Upper Motor Neuron Pathology
• Cervical Myelopathy

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Evidence

• Unknown

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See Also

• Neck Pain (Main)
• Neck Anatomy (Main)
• Physical Exam Neck

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