Magnet reflex

With the baby in the supine position, apply light pressure with the thumb to the sole of the foot producing flexion of the leg. The baby pushes back against the pressure, so the examiner gets the sensation that his thumb is drawing the limb out as by a magnet.
The absence of the magnet reflex can indicate spinal cord damage.

Source: Medri Vodcast: Neonatology - February 4, 2008 Category: Perinatology & Neonatology Authors: Rijeka University School of Medicine Tags: Medicine Source Type: podcasts