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Table 8-2

Spinal Cord and Conus Medullaris Reflexes

ReflexLocation of LesionStimulusNormal ResponseAbnormal Response
BabinskiUpper motor neuronStroking the plantar aspect of foot proximal lateral to distal medialToes plantarflex.Toes extend and splay.
OppenheimUpper motor neuronRubbing the tibial crest proximal to distalToes plantarflex.Toes extend and splay.
CremastericT12–L1Stroking the medial thigh proximal to distalUpward motion of the scrotumNo motion of the scrotum
Anal winkS2–S4Stroking skin around anusAnal sphincter contracts.No anal sphincter contraction
BulbocavernosusS3–S4Squeezing the penis in males, applying pressure to clitoris in females, or tugging the bladder catheter in eitherAnal sphincter contracts.No anal sphincter contraction