Primitive Reflex Integration

At Divine Myndz, we offer an integrated approach to therapy that views the patient with a bifocal lens of development of the self and the environment that influences this development. One aspect of development is the set of primitive reflexes that constitute a foundational aspect of our responses to our environment. The development of these reflexes and their eventual integration into our cognitive abilities is crucial for our ability to transition from a reactive being to a responsive being, with respect to our environment. So, what are primitive reflexes? Read on to learn more.

What Are Primitive Reflexes?

Primitive reflexes are involuntary, sudden and automatic movements or responses that are directed by the brainstem. They are present in a normally developing infant and are vital for survival. They act as an invisible protective shield for infants and facilitates early motor development. As the brain matures, these reflexes are integrated into mature movements (voluntary motor movements) during various stages of child development. The emergence and integration of these reflexes are essential for motor, cognitive, social and emotional development of a child.

What Are Retained Reflexes?

When present or retained beyond a certain age, they can interfere with the development of a child in domains such as cognitive skills, attention, sensory processing, postural control and academic abilities.

Common Reflexes And Their Influence On Development

MORO REFLEX: Also known as startle reflex. It is present at birth and integrates around 6 months of age. Retention can lead to sensory sensitivities, anxiety, social and emotional immaturity etc
ROOT REFLEX: It is present at birth and integrates around 4 months. This reflex is responsible for automatic response to food in a newborn. Retention beyond 4 months can lead to oral motor difficulties, difficulty with chewing and swallowing, sensitivity to food textures etc
PALMAR REFLEX: It is present at birth and integrates around 4-6 months of age. This reflex is the precursor to hand functions including fine motor skills. Retention beyond a certain stage can result in poor fine motor skills, messy handwriting, poor pencil grip etc
ATNR:It is present at the time of birth and along with Spinal Galant, this reflex helps in the birthing process. Integrates around 6 months of age. Retention beyond a certain age can lead to difficulty in writing skills, difficulty with bilateral integration, difficulty in fine and gross motor skills, difficulty with visual tracking etc
STNR: Appears around 6-9 months of age and integrates around 9-12 months of age. This reflex helps the child in crawling and helps in facilitating balance and control. Retention beyond a certain age can lead to difficulties with posture and balance, difficulty with coordination, difficulty swimming etc
SPINAL GALANT: Present at birth and integrates around 6 months of age. This along with ATNR aids in the birthing process. If retained beyond a certain age this can lead to restlessness, sensitivity to touch, lack of focus, poor short-term memory etc.
TLR:Present at birth and integrates around 6 months of age. This plays a vital role in head control, postural control and balance. If retained beyond a certain age it can lead to balance and coordination issues, motion sickness, dislike to sports etc

What is Reflex Integration?

Reflex Integration is a therapeutic approach to assess which reflex is retained and to what level based on established assessment methods. Once identified, a therapy protocol is planned to address these retained reflexes. Subsequent re-assessments are done periodically to determine the level of integration of the reflexes.