Gluteal Reflex
Historical document, translated for reference. It reflects medical knowledge of the 1920s–30s and is not medical advice.
Summary
The gluteal reflex is a physiological reflex elicited by stroking or pricking the skin of the buttock region, resulting in the contraction of the gluteal muscles and elevation of the gluteal fold. This article from the 1928–1936 Soviet Great Medical Encyclopedia outlines its spinal segment localization and clinical significance.
Encyclopedia entry (1928–1936)
GLUTEAL REFLEX, or gluteal, is elicited by a stroking stimulus or, better, a prick in the region of the buttock and is manifested by the contraction of the gluteal muscles and an upward movement of the gluteal fold. The gluteal reflex corresponds to the 4th-5th lumbar and 1st sacral segments. When the corresponding roots are severed, it is abolished. Its exaggeration is typical in cases of irritation of the roots of the cauda equina.
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Cite this page
“Gluteal Reflex.” Soviet Medical Encyclopedia. English translation of Bolshaya Meditsinskaya Entsiklopediya, 1st ed. (Moscow, 1928–1936), ed. N. A. Semashko. https://sovietmedicalencyclopedia.pages.dev/article/gluteal-reflex/