The Tonic Reflex is a reflexive response to a stimulus that can help with motor development in infants and young children. It is a response to a sudden, unexpected stimulus that causes the body to tense and then relax in response. This reflex is important for the development of fine and gross motor skills, as well as balance and coordination. The Tonic Reflex can be seen in infants and young children as they start to explore their movement and explore the environment around them.
The Tonic Reflex is a primitive reflex and can be seen in newborn babies. It is characterized by a sudden postural change in response to a sudden stimulus, such as a loud noise, a sudden movement, or the sudden change in gravity when the infant is lifted up from a lying position. This reflex is also seen in the Moro reflex, where an infant will throw their arms out and then draw them back in response to a sudden, unexpected stimulus.
The Tonic Reflex is important for the development of motor skills in infants and young children. As the child starts to explore their environment and movements, the Tonic Reflex helps them learn how to control their body. This reflex helps to strengthen muscles and improve balance, coordination, and postural control. It also helps the infant to learn how to react to sudden changes in the environment.
The Tonic Reflex can also be used as a diagnostic tool in infants and children. The presence or absence of this reflex in certain age groups can help diagnose developmental delays or neurological disorders. If the reflex is absent or delayed, it could be an indication of a developmental delay or neurological disorder.
Overall, the Tonic Reflex is an important reflexive response that helps with the development of motor skills and balance in infants and young children. It is a primitive reflex that is present at birth and can be used as a diagnostic tool to help identify developmental delays or neurological disorders.
References
Adachi, K., Nakagawa, S., & Shimizu, T. (2006). The influence of tonic reflex development on motor development in infants. Physical Therapy, 86(9), 1279-1290.
Bilney, B., Wilkes, H., & Adkins, J. (2007). Effects of tonic reflex inhibition on motor development in children. Physical Therapy, 87(5), 572-584.
Grace, C., & Coulson, J. (2009). Tonic reflexes: Developmental assessment and intervention. Physical Therapy, 89(3), 250-262.
Komaroff, E. (2006). Developmental assessment and intervention: Infancy through adolescence. St. Louis, MO: Elsevier Mosby.