reflex testing

Question 1

Anal Wink

Answer 1

Gently stroke the anal region. Look for contraction of the perianal muscle. Absence is
abnormal and suggestive of a lesion on the spinal cord (i.e., spina bifida).

Question 2

Plantar Reflex (Babinski Reflex)

Answer 2

Upward extension of the big toe with fanning of the other toes. Starting on the heel, stroke
firmly the outer side of the sole toward the front of the foot.

Question 3

Palmar Reflex (Grasp Reflex)

Answer 3

Place a finger on the infant’s open palm. The infant closes his or her hand around the finger. Pulling away the examiner’s finger causes the infant’s grip to tighten

Question 4

Moro Reflex (Startle Reflex)

Answer 4

Sudden loud noise will cause symmetric abduction and extension of the arms followed by adduction and flexion of the arms over the body. Disappears by 3 to 4 months.

Question 5

Abnormal Moro Reflex

Answer 5

Absence on one side: Rule out brachial plexus injury, fracture, or shoulder dystocia.

Absence on both sides: Rule out spinal cord or brain lesion.

Older infant: Persistence of Moro reflex is abnormal. Rule out brain pathology.

Question 6

Step Reflex

Answer 6

Hold baby upright and allow the dorsal surface of one foot to touch the edge of a table.
Baby will flex the hip and knee and place the stimulated foot on the tabletop (stepping
motion). Absent with paresis and breech births. Disappears by 6 weeks.

Question 7

Blink Reflex

Answer 7

Eyelids will close in response to bright light or touch

Question 8

Tonic Neck Reflex (Fencing Reflex)

Answer 8

Turning head to one side with jaw over shoulder causes the arm and leg on the same side to
extend. The arm and leg on the opposite side will flex

Question 9

Rooting Reflex

Answer 9

Stroking the corner of the mouth causes baby to turn toward stimulus and suck. Disappears by 3 to 4 months.

Question 10

A strong Moro reflex in an older infant (age 6 months or older)

Answer 10

is abnormal and indicative of brain damage.