The triceps reflex is a stretch reflex in which a tap on the triceps tendon just above the olecranon makes the triceps contract and the elbow extend. It tests mainly the C7 root and the radial nerve. It is the standard reflex test for C7.
| Nerve root | C7 (C6-C8) |
|---|---|
| Area | Triceps tendon just above the olecranon at the back of the elbow |
| How to test | With the arm supported and the elbow bent to about 90 degrees, the examiner strikes the triceps tendon just above the olecranon and watches for elbow extension. |
| Muscles | |
| Nerve Supply | Radial nerve |
Confirms the integrity of the C7 reflex arc and descending control of the arm reflexes.
A reduced triceps reflex on one side is a sign of C7 radiculopathy, the most common cervical root lesion. A brisk triceps reflex suggests an upper motor neuron lesion above C7. Tendon reflexes are graded 0 (absent) to 4+ (clonus), with 2+ normal; symmetry matters more than the absolute grade.
Compression of the C7 root at C6-C7 reduces the triceps reflex, often with middle finger numbness and triceps weakness.
Damage above the reflex arc, such as cervical myelopathy, stroke or multiple sclerosis, removes inhibition and makes the reflex brisk, sometimes with spread to nearby muscles.
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