Knee-jerk reaction hammer

Object

Hammer

Production date

c.1950s

Object number

2009.210

Physical Description

This is a Babinski type reflex hammer with a wooden handle, metal disc centre and rubber ring. Reflex hammers are used by doctors to test for reflex reactions to the stimulus of being lightly struck. It can be used to diagnose the location of an injury. This hammer was used in the surgery of Dr. Lionel Stoll, who moved to Hackney from Lithuania in 1907. Stoll was a strong supporter of the NHS and tried to come to an arrangement with patients who couldn't afford his fee. Many GPs were against free health care as it meant losing out on the fees they could charge some of their wealthy patients.

Associated Person

Stoll, Lionel (Dr)

Associated Place

27 Hollycroft Avenue (Place)

Material

wood

Rubber

Metals

Dimension

height (Whole): 350mm
diameter (whole): 85mm