Reflexmeter

Reflexmeter is a device or system designed to quantify reflex responses by delivering a controlled stimulus and recording the resulting motor reaction. The central aim is to measure reflex latency (the time from stimulus onset to onset of response) and reflex strength or magnitude, typically expressed as peak EMG activity, movement amplitude, or angular displacement.

In operation, a reflexmeter may use somatosensory stimuli such as a tendon tap or skin tap, auditory or visual cues, and records responses with sensors. In clinical or research settings, instruments often combine electromyography (EMG) with motion sensors or force transducers to capture the response and compute latency, response profile, and, in some cases, reflex gain.

Common applications include neurology for evaluating peripheral nerves and spinal pathways, rehabilitation monitoring, sports science for assessing neuromuscular function and reaction time, and experimental psychology to study reflex modulation under different conditions.

Historically, reflex measurement relied on manual timing with stopwatches and a clinician’s perception; modern reflexmeters are computer-assisted, enabling standardized stimuli, automated data collection, and objective reporting. While offering objective data, measurements can be affected by subject factors such as attention, motivation, fatigue, and the exact stimulus parameters, emphasizing the need for standardized protocols and calibration.

Examples of related concepts include the H-reflex and stretch reflex in neurophysiology, reaction time testing, and EMG instrumentation.