How to Perform an Infant Exam: Checking Reflexes for Optimal Development

Performing an infant exam to assess reflexes is a critical part of ensuring optimal motor and nervous system development. Reflexes in infants are essential for survival and development in the early months of life, but they also provide healthcare providers and parents with valuable insights into a child’s neurological and musculoskeletal health. In this guide, we’ll walk through the process of checking primitive reflexes and other key developmental markers to support your infant’s growth.

What Are Primitive Reflexes?

Primitive reflexes are automatic movements triggered by specific stimuli in newborns and young infants. These reflexes are critical for early development but should disappear as the nervous system matures. Monitoring their presence and timing helps identify whether a child is developing appropriately or may require further attention.

Essential Reflexes to Check in Infants

1. Rooting Reflex

• What to Do: Stroke the side of the infant’s face gently.

• What to Look For: The infant should turn their head toward the stimulus, open their mouth, and begin sucking.

• Why It’s Important: This reflex helps infants develop feeding behaviors and eventually plays a role in speech development. It typically fades by 3–4 months of age.

2. Palmar Grasp Reflex

• What to Do: Stroke the palm of the infant’s hand.

• What to Look For: The infant should grasp your finger tightly.

• Why It’s Important: This reflex indicates proper motor development in the hands and fingers. It usually disappears by 3–4 months of age.

3. Babinski Reflex

• What to Do: Stroke the outside of the infant’s foot, from the heel to the toes.

• What to Look For: The toes should fan out and the big toe may extend upward.

• Why It’s Important: This reflex provides insight into the function of the central nervous system and remains present until about 12 months of age.

4. Spinal Galant Reflex

• What to Do: Place the infant on their stomach or hold them upright. Stroke one side of their lower back.

• What to Look For: The infant should curve their body toward the side being stimulated.

• Why It’s Important: This reflex supports motor development and can help identify issues in the spinal or nervous system.

5. Moro (Startle) Reflex

• What to Do: Move the infant quickly or let their head drop slightly while supporting their neck.

• What to Look For: The infant’s arms should splay outward, followed by bringing them back toward the body.

• Why It’s Important: The startle reflex helps develop the nervous and vagal systems. It typically disappears by 3–4 months of age. If it persists, it could indicate challenges with anxiety or attentional regulation later in life.

6. Asymmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex (ATNR)

• What to Do: Turn the infant’s head gently to one side.

• What to Look For: The arm on the same side should extend while the opposite arm flexes.

• Why It’s Important: This reflex supports the development of cross-crawl patterns and coordination. It generally fades by 6 months of age.

Range of Motion and Chiropractic Insights

In addition to reflexes, it’s important to assess the infant’s range of motion, particularly in the neck. Full and unrestricted head movement is essential for reflex development and motor milestones.

• How to Check: Gently turn the infant’s head to both sides. It should move smoothly without resistance.

• Why It’s Important: Restricted movement in the neck can indicate upper cervical spine issues, often stemming from the birth process. These restrictions can impact the development of primitive reflexes and overall motor skills.

If resistance or limited motion is observed, consult a pediatric chiropractor or your healthcare provider. Do not force the movement, as this could harm the infant.

Why Early Detection Matters

Primitive reflexes serve as the foundation for later motor and cognitive development. If these reflexes are absent, persist longer than expected, or appear delayed, it could signal potential developmental delays or neurological concerns. Early intervention can address these challenges and support the infant’s optimal growth.

Final Thoughts

Performing an infant exam to check reflexes is an invaluable tool for parents, healthcare providers, and chiropractors. By monitoring reflexes and ensuring full range of motion, you can help promote healthy nervous system development and motor function in your child. If you notice any concerns or have questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to a qualified professional for guidance.

Taking these simple steps now can pave the way for a lifetime of healthy development!