Understanding Retained Primitive Reflexes: A nervous system perspective from Anew Chiropractic Clinic
When babies are born, they arrive with a built-in set of automatic movement patterns called primitive reflexes. These reflexes help with survival, protection, and early development. Over time, as the brain and nervous system mature, these reflexes are naturally integrated (or “turned off”) and replaced by more controlled, voluntary movement.
But what happens when they don’t fully integrate?
At Anew Chiropractic Clinic, we often see children (and sometimes adults) whose symptoms may be connected to retained primitive reflexes, a sign that the nervous system may need additional support.
What Are Primitive Reflexes?
Primitive reflexes are automatic responses controlled by the brainstem. They appear in infancy and typically integrate within the first year of life as higher brain centers develop.
Some common primitive reflexes include:
Moro Reflex (Startle Reflex) – Activated by sudden movement or loud noise
Asymmetric Tonic Neck Reflex (ATNR) – When a baby turns their head, the arm and leg on that side extend
Palmar Grasp Reflex – Causes babies to grip objects placed in their palm
Rooting Reflex – Helps babies locate food by turning toward touch on the cheek
These reflexes are essential early on—but they are meant to fade as the nervous system matures.
What Does “Retained” Mean?
A reflex is considered retained when it remains active beyond the typical developmental window.
Instead of being replaced by mature movement patterns, the body continues to rely on these automatic responses. This can interfere with:
Coordination
Balance
Posture
Emotional regulation
Learning and focus
Retained reflexes are not a disease. They are a sign that certain areas of neurological development may need support.
Signs of Retained Primitive Reflexes
Every child is different, but some common signs may include:
Poor posture or slouching
Clumsiness or frequent tripping
Difficulty sitting still
Trouble concentrating or staying focused
Sensitivity to sound, light, or touch
Emotional overreactions or anxiety
Challenges with reading or handwriting
In adults, retained reflexes can sometimes contribute to chronic tension, balance issues, or stress sensitivity.
Why Do Reflexes Stay Active?
There are several possible factors that may influence reflex integration:
Birth stress or trauma
Limited tummy time in infancy
Developmental delays
Recurrent illness
Prolonged stress
Nervous system dysregulation
The key takeaway: integration is a neurological process. When the brain and body communication improves, reflexes can often integrate more effectively.
How Chiropractic Care Can Help
At Anew Chiropractic Clinic, we approach retained primitive reflexes from a nervous system perspective.
Chiropractic care focuses on optimizing spinal alignment and nervous system function. Because the spine protects the spinal cord—the main communication pathway between brain and body—supporting this system can help improve overall neurological coordination.
Care may include:
Gentle chiropractic adjustments
Specific movement-based exercises
Balance and coordination activities
Postural support strategies
Parent education and home exercises
Our goal is not to “treat a reflex,” but to support the nervous system so the body can do what it was designed to do—develop and regulate naturally.
What to Expect at an Assessment
If you suspect retained reflexes, an initial assessment may include:
A detailed health and developmental history
Postural and movement screening
Simple reflex testing
Balance and coordination evaluation
From there, we create a personalized care plan tailored to your child’s needs.
Is It Too Late to Integrate Reflexes?
No. While reflexes develop in infancy, the nervous system remains adaptable throughout life. With the right support and stimulation, meaningful changes are possible at many ages.
Early intervention is ideal but improvement is always possible.
Supporting Your Child’s Development
Retained primitive reflexes are more common than many parents realize. The good news is that the nervous system is incredibly adaptable.
If your child struggles with coordination, focus, posture, or emotional regulation, it may be worth exploring a neurological assessment.
At Anew Chiropractic Clinic, we are committed to helping children and families thrive—by supporting the foundation of health: the nervous system.
Ready to Learn More?
If you have questions about retained primitive reflexes or would like to schedule an assessment, contact Anew Chiropractic Clinic today.
Let’s support your child’s development, naturally.
References
Blythe, S. G. (2005). The well balanced child: Movement and early learning. Hawthorn Press.
Blythe, S. G. (2017). Neuromotor immaturity in children and adults: The INPP screening test for clinicians and health practitioners. John Wiley & Sons.
Goddard Blythe, S. (2002). Neurological dysfunction as a significant factor in children diagnosed with dyslexia. The Proceedings of the 5th British Dyslexia Association International Conference, 5–16.
Goddard Blythe, S. A. (2012). Reflexes, learning and behavior: A window into the child’s mind. Fern Ridge Press.
Konicarova, J., & Bob, P. (2012). Retained primitive reflexes and ADHD in children. Activitas Nervosa Superior Rediviva, 54(3–4), 135–138.
McPhillips, M., Hepper, P. G., & Mulhern, G. (2000). Effects of replicating primary-reflex movements on specific reading difficulties in children: A randomised, double-blind, controlled trial. The Lancet, 355(9203), 537–541. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(99)02179-0
Teitelbaum, P., Teitelbaum, O., Nye, J., Fryman, J., & Maurer, R. G. (1998). Movement analysis in infancy may be useful for early diagnosis of autism. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 95(23), 13982–13987. https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.95.23.13982
Zafeiriou, D. I. (2004). Primitive reflexes and postural reactions in the neurodevelopmental examination. Pediatric Neurology, 31(1), 1–8. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2004.01.012