Reflex Extensor Cross

The extensor cross reflex (syn. Philipson reflex) is a reflex that occurs in response to stretching of the extensor muscles of the foot and toes. This causes contraction of the hip and calf flexor muscles. This reflex is one of the main reflexes that controls the position of the body in space.

The extensor crossed reflex was discovered in 1872 by Swedish physiologist Philip Philipson. He noticed that when the muscles of the foot and toes are stretched, the muscles of the thigh and lower leg contract, which leads to extension of the knee and foot.

This reflex plays an important role in maintaining balance and coordination of movements. It can also be used as a test to determine the condition of the nervous system and muscles. For example, if the reflex does not occur when the foot or toes are stretched, this may indicate a nerve conduction disorder or muscle weakness.

In addition, the cross extensor reflex is used in physical therapy and physiotherapy to restore motor functions after injuries or diseases. For example, when recovering from a stroke or paralysis, the reflex can help improve coordination and strengthen muscles.

Thus, the cross extensor reflex is an important mechanism for regulating body position and plays an important role in maintaining balance and coordination of movements. Its study and use in medicine and physical therapy can help restore motor functions and improve the quality of life of patients.

Extensor cross reflex (synonym - Philippson reflex): a mechanism of the body's defense reaction

In the human body there are many complex reflexes that perform important functions in maintaining its vital functions. One such reflex is the crossed extensor reflex, also known as the Philipson reflex. This reflex is a mechanism of the body's protective reaction to irritants in the environment.

The extensor cross reflex is activated when various stimuli are applied to the skin of the foot. When a stimulus (such as pain or pressure) reaches a threshold level, nerve impulses are transmitted along the sensory nerves to the spinal cord. The spinal cord then transmits the motor impulses through the motor nerves to the corresponding muscles, causing them to contract.

A feature of the extensor cross reflex is that stimulation of one side of the foot causes contraction of the muscles on the opposite side of the body. For example, when you press the foot on the right, the muscles of the left leg contract. This mechanism ensures the body's rapid and automatic response to dangerous or painful situations.

The extensor cross reflex is important for maintaining balance and coordination of movements. It allows the body to quickly respond to threats such as thorns in the path or a hot surface. In addition, this reflex plays a role in maintaining proper foot placement when walking and running.

Although the extensor crossed reflex is an innate and automatic mechanism, it can be modified and controlled through training and practice. An example of such training is balancing on one leg or performing special exercises aimed at strengthening the muscles of the foot and lower leg.

The development and understanding of the extensor cross reflex has practical implications in medicine and physical therapy. Abnormalities in this reflex may indicate problems with the nervous system or muscles and require additional testing and treatment.

In conclusion, the crossed extensor reflex, or Philipsonian reflex, is an important mechanism of the body's defensive response to stimuli in the environment. This reflex causes the muscles on the opposite side of the body to contract quickly and automatically when the foot is stimulated. It plays a role in maintaining balance and coordination, as well as maintaining proper foot placement when walking and running. Understanding and studying this reflex is important in medicine and physical therapy, and can help identify and treat possible disorders in the nervous system or muscles. Training and exercises aimed at strengthening the muscles in the foot and leg can also help improve control of this reflex.