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. DATA SOURCES: 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. DATA SYNTHESIS: 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/RECOMMENDATIONS: 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.