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Jaw jerk

Last reviewed dd mmm yyyy. Last edited dd mmm yyyy

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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.

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