Primitive Reflex Integration
What are Primitive Reflexes?
Primitive reflexes are involuntary movement patterns that were designed to protect the baby and help with baby development. These reflexes should integrate, or go away, on their own in typically developing children.
Sometimes these reflexes do not integrate and remain active, signifying immaturity of the central nervous system.
Why are Primitive Reflexes important?
Non-integrated reflexes can lead to delays in development, and a variety of other issues including attentional, emotional, and motor issues, depending on the reflex.
The Gieysztor et al. scientific study found "Retained primitive reflexes can disturb natural development and involve difficulties in social and educational children's life. They can also impact on psychomotor development."
The Gieysztor et al. study also determined "Primitive reflexes routinely tested, can contribute to improved early psychomotor development in children with needs, thus preventing many difficulties which children can encounter within their social and school life."
The Chinello et al. scientific study concluded "Our findings suggest that the persistence of primitive reflexes might alter the developmental trajectory of future motor ability and therefore their evaluation might be an early indicator of atypical development."
Does my child have Non-Integrated Primitive Reflexes?
Check out our Primitive Reflexes Red Flags Checklist to see if your child may have symptoms of non-integrated primitive reflexes and could benefit from Primitive Reflex Integration.
Contact us to find out more about reflex integration or schedule an evaluation.
Occupational Therapy helps integrate primitive reflexes.