Weakened tendon reflexes

Weakened tendon reflexes, also known as hyporeflexia, refer to a diminished response when a tendon is tapped with a reflex hammer. This condition often indicates an underlying issue with the nervous system, particularly the peripheral nerves. Individuals with hyporeflexia may experience sluggish or absent reflexes when tested on common sites such as the knees or elbows. This diminished reflex can result from conditions like Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome (LEMS), peripheral neuropathy, or certain autoimmune disorders. Diagnosing the cause of hyporeflexia usually involves a thorough neurological examination and relevant diagnostic tests. Effective treatment requires addressing the underlying condition contributing to the weakened reflexes.

Source | Author Doctor Nikas Samuolis, reviewed by Prof. Virginijus Šapoka | Vilnius University | Faculty of Medicine | Head of the Department of Internal Medicine, Family Medicine, and Oncology