Primitive Reflexes

Question 1

Moro

Answer 1

Appears: term newborn; disappears: 3 mo

elicited by head extension. Two phases: extension and abduction of arms and leg extension, followed by slower abduction of arms. Asymmetry indicates central nervous system disease such as hemiparesis, spinal cord lesion or brachial plexus injury

Question 2

Tonic neck

Answer 2

Appears: 1 mo; disappears: 5 mo

Turning head: arm and leg extended on the side of the turn with flexion on the other side (fencer posture). If infant is unable to move out of posture, implies possible brain pathology

Question 3

Traction response

Answer 3

Appears: birth; disappears: 6 mo

lift baby by traction in both hands head lag after 6 mo is pathologic and indicates hypotonia

Question 4

Parachute

Answer 4

Appears: 6 mo; disappears: persists throughout life

Elicited by plunging suspended infant downward. Arms should thrust forward symmetrically as if breaking the fall. Also elicited with baby in sitting position and pushed forward. Arms should try to break the fall. Asymmetry suggests hemiparesis, spinal cord lesion or brachial plexus pathology