Retained Primitive Reflexes

Retained Primitive Reflexes

Did you know that some of the physical, emotional, or behavioural challenges you—or your child—may be experiencing could be linked to early reflexes that never fully integrated?

Primitive reflexes (also known as primary reflexes) are automatic, instinctive movements that develop in the womb and are present at birth. They help with survival, bonding, and early development. These reflexes are meant to naturally fade away—typically by the age of two—as the nervous system matures and higher brain functions take over.

But sometimes, that doesn’t happen.

When these reflexes remain active beyond infancy, they can quietly interfere with the way we move, learn, process information, and respond to the world around us. This can affect children and adults alike—often without anyone realising the root cause.

What Can Retained Reflexes Affect?

Unintegrated reflexes can show up in many different ways, such as: difficulty concentrating or sitting still, challenges with reading, writing, or coordination, sensory sensitivities (e.g. dislike of loud noises, bright lights, or being touched), emotional overwhelm or anxiety, poor posture or motor control, tiptoe walking, travel sickness, fussy eating or clinginess

You might notice one or two of these signs—or many. Either way, if the nervous system is still reacting as though it’s in early survival mode, everyday tasks can feel more challenging than they should.

The Reflexes Involved

There are several key primitive reflexes commonly involved. For example:

  • The Moro reflex (startle reflex) — linked to anxiety and emotional regulation
  • The Palmar and Plantar grasps — affect fine and gross motor skills
  • The Asymmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex (ATNR) — often connected to reading, writing, and coordination issues
  • The Spinal Galant reflex — can contribute to fidgeting or discomfort in clothes
  • The Rooting and Sucking reflexes — influence eating patterns and oral sensitivities
  • The Babinski reflex — relates to balance and movement

Each of these reflexes plays a role early in life—but if they linger, they can create blockages in the body's natural ability to grow, learn, and self-regulate.

How Kinesiology Can Help

This is where kinesiology can be life-changing.

Through gentle muscle testing, kinesiology helps identify which primitive reflexes are still active and which systems are affected. Once identified, I use non-invasive, movement-based techniques designed to help the body integrate these reflexes naturally and safely.

It’s not about forcing anything. Each session is tailored to your unique needs, with care taken to work at your pace and comfort level.

We’re not just treating symptoms — we’re addressing the root causes, one layer at a time, so your body can restore its own balance.

What Changes Might You Notice?

Once reflexes begin to integrate, the results can be powerful and wide-reaching:

  • Greater emotional resilience
  • Improved focus and memory
  • Better coordination and physical comfort
  • Reduced overwhelm or sensitivity
  • A sense of ease in learning and movement
  • Increased confidence and self-regulation

 

Whether you’re a parent concerned about your child’s development, or an adult navigating unexplained challenges, reflex integration through kinesiology can help bring clarity, calm, and real change.