Answer:
When performing a neurological assessment, especially of whether or not there is a spinal cord lesion, there is one reflex that is easy to test, and which will tell medical professionals if there is a damage to the central nervous system, or not. This test is called the Plantar Reflex. Essentially, when the later side of the sole of the foot is stimulated with a blunt object, from heel to metatarsal pads, in adults, there are two expected results, the first, the foot curving inwards with the full toes towards the point of pressure, or, there is no response from the foot to the stimulus. However, there is a third possible response, which is pathological, and it is known as the Babinsky sign, in honor of neurologist Joseph Babinsky.
The Babinsky sign, then, which is an abnormal response, and if present, it is called a positive Babinsky sign, is defined as the motor response of the foot to stimulus of the sole by extending outwards, with the big toe fully extended upwards, while the other toes fan out.
When this sign appears in adults, it indicates a damage to the nerves of the spinal cord, or the brain.
