The following diagnostic tests are used to evaluate the functionality of spinal nerves at various levels of the spinal cord. Thus, these test both the activity of the spinal cord at a particular level and the proper functioning of the nerves between the site of testing and the spinal cord. Extend subject's forearm and palpate biceps tendon on the front of the elbow on the radial side. Reflex should produce forearm flexion. Tests C5,C6 level function 2.
Tester holds subject's forearm and strikes the back of the elbow just above the olecranon process.
Reflex should produce forearm extension. Tests C7,C8 function 3. Tester drags handle of reflex handle across the abdomen laterally from the midline. Reflex produces contraction of the abdominal muscles. Above the umbilicus tests T8-T10 level function.