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In the context of a head injury, monitoring reflexes is critical for assessing neurological function. Changes in deep tendon reflexes can indicate serious issues because these reflexes are mediated by the spinal cord and can reflect disruptions in both spinal cord integrity and central nervous system function.

In a patient with a head injury, abnormalities in deep tendon reflexes may suggest spinal shock, increased intracranial pressure, or other neurological deficits that could signify damage to pathways involved in reflex arcs. For instance, a decrease or absence of deep tendon reflexes may indicate compromised nerve pathways or severe neurological impairment.

While other reflexes like the corneal reflex and plantar reflex are also important for neurological assessment, changes in deep tendon reflexes are particularly relevant as they can reveal alterations in the central and peripheral nervous systems related to more widespread neurological damage after an injury. The flexor reflex, meanwhile, usually remains intact even in significant neurological injury due to its simpler, more localized pathway.