The hoffmann reflex: methodologic considerations and applications for use in sports medicine and athletic training research.
OBJECTIVE
To discuss the proper methods used to elicit the Hoffmann reflex (H-reflex) and to present different situations in which this tool can be used in sports medicine research.


METHODS
We searched MEDLINE and SPORT Discus from 1960 to 2004 using the key words Hoffmann reflex, H-reflex, and methodology. The remaining citations were collected from references of similar papers.


RESULTS
Numerous authors have used the H-reflex as a tool to examine neurologic conditions. However, few have used the H-reflex to examine neuromuscular impairments after sport injuries. Several studies were available describing the appropriate methods to elicit the H-reflex and examining the reliability of this measurement in different muscles.


CONCLUSIONS
The H-reflex is a valuable tool to evaluate neurologic function in various populations. However, because of the sensitivity of this measurement to extraneous factors, care must be taken when eliciting the H-reflex. We discuss recommendations on how to elicit the H-reflex and how to appropriately present methods in a manuscript.
Palmieri
Riann M
RM
University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI.
Ingersoll
Christopher D
CD
Hoffman
Mark A
MA