A positive Hoffmann sign is demonstrated by which response?

A positive Hoffmann sign is demonstrated by which response?

• A. Flexion of the index finger and thumb
• B. Flexion of the little finger
• C. Extension of the index finger
• D. Adduction of the thumb

Answer: (A)

This signs tests upper motor neuron function through the corticospinal tract. When you flick the distal phalanx of the middle finger, a true Hoffmann sign is produced by involuntary flexion of the thumb and index finger, sometimes with brief adduction. This reflex pattern reflects heightened excitability of spinal reflexes due to corticospinal tract dysfunction, often from cervical myelopathy or other UMN lesions. So the best answer is the movement of the index finger flexing along with thumb flexion, which is the classic positive Hoffmann sign. Other finger movements listed do not represent this reflex pattern.

This signs tests upper motor neuron function through the corticospinal tract. When you flick the distal phalanx of the middle finger, a true Hoffmann sign is produced by involuntary flexion of the thumb and index finger, sometimes with brief adduction. This reflex pattern reflects heightened excitability of spinal reflexes due to corticospinal tract dysfunction, often from cervical myelopathy or other UMN lesions. So the best answer is the movement of the index finger flexing along with thumb flexion, which is the classic positive Hoffmann sign. Other finger movements listed do not represent this reflex pattern.