The thoracic nerve acts as both the afferent and the efferent pathway. The spinal root is Th7-8 for the epigastric reflex, Th9-10 for the mesogastric reflex and Th11-12 for the hypogastric reflex.
- The patient should be lying on the examination table in a relaxed position.
- Stroke the end of a cotton swab lightly across six abdominal regions (epigastric, mesogastric, hypogastric, left and right) [Figure 85]. Repeat stroking more firmly if necessary.
- Draw the swab in a lateral to medial direction. Note the movement of the umbilicus caused by reflex tension in the abdominal muscles.
Figure 85