Primitive Reflexes

Primitive reflexes are are automatic movements directed by your brain stem and require no thought. They are needed for survival and development in the womb and in the early months of life. 


However, as the higher more sophisticated areas of the brain begin to mature, these primitive reflexes get in the way and must be integrated to allow for proper neurological organization of the brain.


Retained primitive reflexes occur for many reasons including: C sections, trauma, toxicity exposure, insufficient tummy time as an infant, lack of crawling, early walkers, excessive falls and chronic ear infections.


There are strong links between primitive reflexes and a whole host of symptoms due to their interference with normal brain development such as:


  • Reading and learning difficulties
  • Attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder
  • Poor impulse control
  • Poor handwriting
  • Difficulty with eye tracking
  • Poor eye hand coordination
  • Chronic digestive issues
  • Hip rotation on 1 side
  • Motion sickness
  • Poor balance and posture


Interestingly enough, many previous integrated primitive reflexes come back under situations of trauma like a concussion or a traumatic brain injury.

image203