Retained Primitive Reflexes in School-Aged Children

A Chiropractor’s Role in Assessment and Support

By Dr. Jo McFadgen

Primitive reflexes are automatic movements directed from the brainstem, present at birth, that play a vital role in early development. These reflexes are typically integrated (inhibited) by the age of 12 months as higher brain centers mature and take control. However, when these primitive reflexes are retained beyond infancy, they can interfere with motor coordination, behavior, learning, and emotional regulation — especially as children enter the school environment.

At our chiropractic clinic, we often assess for and support children with retained reflexes using a holistic, collaborative approach. Here’s how:

1. Fear Paralysis Reflex (FPR)

• Purpose: A protective, early survival response to perceived threat (precedes the Moro reflex)
• Symptoms if Retained:
  • Generalised anxiety or fearfulness
  • Withdrawal in new or stimulating environments
  • Freeze or shut down under stress
  • Sleep disturbances and nightmares
  • Social or emotional inhibition
• Examples in Daily Life:
  • Avoids new situations or social settings
  • Overwhelmed by minor stress (e.g., new classroom, change in routine)
  • May appear shy, overly cautious, or rigid
  • Tendency to ‘freeze’ rather than fight or flee when overwhelmed

2. Moro Reflex (Startle Reflex)

• Purpose: Fight-or-flight response to sudden stimuli
• Symptoms if Retained:
  • Hypersensitivity to light, sound, or touch
  • Emotional outbursts or anxiety
  • Poor impulse control
• Examples in Daily Life:
  • Overreacts to minor stress or loud noises
  • Struggles with transitions (e.g., from play to schoolwork)
  • Easily distracted or anxious in class

3. ATNR – Asymmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex

• Purpose: Assists in birth process and early hand-eye coordination
• Symptoms if Retained:
  • Difficulty with handwriting
  • Poor hand-eye coordination
  • Trouble crossing the midline
• Examples in Daily Life:
  • Sloppy or tiring handwriting
  • Letter reversals (b/d, p/q)
  • Head turns when writing or reading across a page

4. Applied Kinesiology

• Helps identify muscle imbalances and reflexive patterns
• Uses light muscle testing to assess how different parts of the brain and body communicate
• Allows us to pinpoint neurological underactivation or compensations, then guide specific corrections

5. Neurological Integration Exercises

These are short, home-based exercises to:

• Inhibit retained reflexes
• Promote neuroplasticity
• Improve coordination and focus

Examples include:

• Cross-crawling to integrate STNR/ATNR
• Balance board work to stimulate the cerebellum
• Slow, rhythmic movement patterns (e.g., snow angels, log rolls)
• Breathwork to help down-regulate Fear Paralysis and Moro reflexes

We provide tailored programs to match the child’s unique developmental stage and reflex profile.

Working with Allied Health Professionals

Chiropractors play a complementary role in a child’s developmental journey. When retained reflexes are present, they often intersect with other challenges such as speech delays, learning difficulties, or sensory processing issues.

We regularly collaborate with:

• Occupational Therapists (OTs) – To co-manage sensory integration and fine motor development
• Physiotherapists – To support postural and gross motor function
• Speech Pathologists – When retained reflexes are impacting orofacial development and speech articulation
• Behavioral Optometrists – Especially when visual tracking or convergence issues are related to reflex retention
• Psychologists and Educators – For behavioral challenges, emotional regulation, and classroom support

This multidisciplinary approach ensures holistic care — addressing the root cause of challenges, not just the symptoms.

Final Thoughts

Retained primitive reflexes may seem subtle, but their impact can ripple through all aspects of a child’s life — from focus and coordination to emotional regulation and learning. As chiropractors trained in pediatric neurodevelopment, we play a unique and vital role in helping children thrive through:

• Careful assessment
• Gentle, targeted treatments
• Neurological exercises
• Collaborative support with other professionals

If you suspect your child may be showing signs of retained reflexes — reach out for a full chiropractic screening. With the right care, children can unlock their full potential — inside and outside the classroom.

Dr Johanna McFadgen

With a holistic, empathetic approach, I’m committed to helping patients of all ages feel their best and achieve long-term wellness.

• Bachelor of Chiropractic Science (Macquarie University)
• Master of Chiropractic (Macquarie University)