From the Research
Vertebrae Responsible for the Babinski Reflex
The Babinski reflex is a neurological sign that indicates dysfunction in the pyramidal tract, specifically involving the corticospinal tract 1. The reflex is characterized by dorsiflexion of the big toe, recruitment of the extensor hallucis longus muscle, on stimulating the sole of the foot 2.
Pathophysiological Mechanism
The Babinski sign is not a new reflex, but rather it is released as a result of breakdown of the harmonious integration of the flexion and extension component of the normal defense reflex mechanism, due to pyramidal tract dysfunction 2. The pyramidal tract is responsible for a monosynaptic stimulation of the extensor hallucis motor neurons, but also, via interneurons, for inhibition of the extensor hallucis 1.
Vertebrae Involved
While the studies do not specifically mention the vertebrae responsible for the Babinski reflex, it is known that the reflex involves the corticospinal tract, which originates in the brain and descends through the spinal cord 1. The spinal cord segments involved in the Babinski reflex are likely to be in the lower thoracic and upper lumbar regions (T12-L2), as these segments are responsible for controlling the muscles of the lower limb 3, 4. However, the exact vertebrae responsible for the Babinski reflex are not specified in the provided studies.
- The Babinski reflex is a sign of pyramidal tract dysfunction 1
- The reflex involves the corticospinal tract, which originates in the brain and descends through the spinal cord 1
- The spinal cord segments involved in the Babinski reflex are likely to be in the lower thoracic and upper lumbar regions (T12-L2) 3, 4