Primitive Reflexes and Postural Reactions
Primitive reflexes and postural reactions play a critical role in early development, balance, and coordination. Understanding these reflexes is essential for occupational therapy practitioners.
Postural Reactions: The Foundation for Movement and Balance
Postural reactions develop during the first year of life and are essential for maintaining balance and movement throughout life. They respond to broader stimuli than primitive reflexes and are triggered by the effects of gravity on the body.
Types of Postural Reactions
There are three types of postural reactions:
- Righting Reactions (RR)
These reactions align the head, trunk, and limbs to maintain the body’s normal position.
Examples include: Head Righting Reflex, Body-on-Body Righting Reflex (BOB), and Neck-on-Body Righting Reaction (NOB). - Equilibrium Reactions (ER)
Equilibrium reactions are more mature responses to regain balance than righting reactions. They restore balance when the center of gravity is disturbed. They involve complex adjustments of the trunk and extremities in the opposite direction of the force causing the imbalance. - Protective Reactions
Protective reactions involve extending the limbs in the same direction as the disturbing force to prevent falls or injuries.
Difference Between Primitive Reflexes and Postural Reflexes
- Primitive Reflexes: Early, automatic responses that support survival and development (e.g., Moro Reflex, Palmar Grasp Reflex).
- Postural Reactions: More mature responses that control balance, coordination, and movement as the brain matures.
Understanding this progression is vital for professionals in occupational therapy, particularly in identifying developmental delays or neurological concerns.
Why Are Postural Reactions Important
Postural reactions such as the Labyrinthine Righting Reflex and Body-on-Head Righting Reflex help children develop proper body alignment and balance which are the foundations for developing advanced motor skills such as sitting, standing, and walking.
Key Reflexes and Reactions in Babies
- Righting Reactions: Ensure vertical head alignment.
- Equilibrium Reactions: Promote balance during movement.
- Protective Reactions: Prevent injury during imbalance or falls.
These reactions develop in a predictable sequence:
- First: Front Protective Reactions
- Then: Side Protective Reactions
- Finally: Back Protective Reactions
Common Questions About Reflexes and Postural Reactions
What is the difference between righting reactions and equilibrium reactions?
- Righting reactions restore alignment of the head and body.
- Equilibrium reactions restore balance when gravity is disturbed.
What are protective reactions?
These responses automatically extend the limbs to prevent injury when balance is lost.
What happens if primitive reflexes are not integrated?
Unintegrated reflexes, such as the ATNR or STNR, can interfere with motor development, balance, and coordination resulting in poorly developed functional skills and poor school performance.
How are postural reactions tested?
Postural reactions are evaluated through observation and clinical assessments.
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- Primitive Reflexes: Purpose, onset, and integration
- Postural Reactions: Practical examples and clinical relevance.
- Interactive Learning: Tables, videos, and practice tests to solidify your knowledge.
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