jaw jerk
Last reviewed 01/2018
The jaw jerk is a test that can help to indicate an upper motor neuron lesion. An exaggerated jaw jerk is seen in conditions such as pseudobulbar palsy.
Procedure for test of jaw jerk:
- the patient is told to let his mouth fall open slightly.
- the examiner places his finger on the patient's chin and taps his finger lightly with a tendon hammer.
An exaggerated closure of the mouth can indicate an upper motor neurone lesion, e.g. pseudobulbar palsy of the fifth cranial nerve.