Understanding Primitive Reflexes and Their Impact on Your Child’s Development
Primitive reflexes are automatic movements that originate in the central nervous system and are essential for an infant’s survival and development. These reflexes are hardwired into our nervous system to help us thrive in early life. For example, the rooting reflex prompts babies to turn their heads toward food when it’s feeding time, ensuring successful breastfeeding.
There are several primitive reflexes, which are the first part of the brain to develop. Typically, they should integrate (disappear) within the first year of life. However, in some cases, these reflexes remain active much longer than they should.
What Causes Retained Primitive Reflexes?
The birth process plays a crucial role in the integration of these reflexes. A traumatic birth—such as excessive twisting and pulling, the use of forceps or vacuum extraction, or a C-section—may contribute to retained reflexes. Other factors include:
Poor posture
Frequent falls
Lack of tummy time
Skipping or delaying crawling
Chronic ear infections
Stress on the spinal column (which houses the nervous system)
How Do Retained Reflexes Affect Development?
Retained primitive reflexes can, but not always, lead to developmental delays and sensory processing disorders. They can contribute to issues in coordination, sensory perception, immunity, energy levels, impulse control, concentration, emotional learning, and intellectual learning.
Here’s a breakdown of some key primitive reflexes and the symptoms associated with their retention:
What Can You Do About Retained Reflexes?
One of the most effective ways to help your child integrate retained reflexes is through chiropractic care. A paediatric chiropractor can remove stress from the spinal column and nervous system through gentle adjustments. Additionally, remediation exercises help integrate these reflexes properly. These exercises will need to be done consistently at home between chiropractic visits for optimal results.
Chiropractic adjustments for children are incredibly safe, gentle, and effective—the force used is about the same as checking the ripeness of a tomato! With regular chiropractic care and targeted exercises, parents often notice improvements in concentration, better coordination, resolution of bedwetting, and a happier, healthier child overall.
If you suspect your child has retained reflexes, schedule a consultation with a paediatric chiropractor today and give them the best chance to thrive!