“Evidence-based practice (EBP) is based on integrating critically appraised research results with the practitioner’s clinical expertise, and the client’s preferences, beliefs, and values” (AOTA). 

Primitive reflexes are often a hot topic in OT forums. 

1. Many OTs believe that retained primitive reflexes can interfere with a child’s learning.
2. Others feel that the minimal research that’s been done isn’t substantial enough.

Personally, I took the Integrated Learning Strategies Retained Primitive Reflex Course, and when I tested some of my students that exhibited the symptoms, I saw exactly what the course said I would.  You can see examples of retained reflexes here.

The Retained Primitive Reflex course includes: 

• More than 40 videos of personal instruction, testing for the reflexes and exercises to integrate the reflexes
• 85-page digital handbook with signs and symptoms of primitive reflexes, myths about primitive reflexes, testing and exercises
• 7 charts and graphs that include parent observation sheets, exercise schedule, progress tracking sheets, learning and motor development checklists and much more
• Private Facebook group where you can ask questions about testing or exercises, visit with other parents or OTs that have had similar experiences and receive additional instruction or training as needed.
•   Don’t wait to join because the e-course is only available three times a year.

Research that supports the idea of working to integrate retained Primitive ReFlexes:

Retained Primitive Reflexes in ADHD and ASD among Children in an Inpatient Psychiatric Setting

Written by Occupational Therapists, this article studies 96 children with ASD and ADHD in an inpatient psychiatric setting.  The purpose of the study was to find out which primitive reflex is most common, and to what degree are the reflexes associated with ASD and ADHD symptoms and executive function deficits. They used a cross-sectional study design. 90.3% of the sample had at least one retained reflex. The most common reflex observed was the ATNR (82.4%).  ATNR was the most common reflex among children diagnosed with ADHD and ASD. ATNR. was significantly positively associated with inattention and executive function deficits.  Conclusion: ATNR and STNR are the most common retained reflexes among children diagnosed with ASD and ADHD. This article offers an evidenced-based rational in order to assess and integrate primitive reflex interventions within pediatric occupational therapy practices, especially with children diagnosed with ASD and ADHD.

Retained Primitive Reflexes and ADHD in Children

This research article studies children ADHD (ages 8-11) and primitive reflexes; specifically pertaining to the Moro and Galant reflexes.  Their study confirmed that children with ADHD have a high occurrence of primitive reflexes. Also, as a consequence, these reflexes may play a role in ADHD.  This article explains how they tested for the Moro and Galant reflex that you could potentially try with your students.  The article summarizes by stating, “these persisting primitive reflexes may play a role in ADHD.”

Retained Primitive Reflexes 

Reflexes play a vital role in survival during certain age periods but should then naturally disappear.  If the reflexes don’t integrate, developmental delays can occur.  Symptoms may be concentration, impulse control, weak balance, and poor posture.

An abstract of the book Reflexes Learning and Behavior, written by Sally Goddarth-Blythe,  is provided. Her book explains how learning can be affected if reflexes are not integrated beyond the age of 3.  Her book explains the reflexes and provides interventions.

The Correlation between Primitive Reflexes and Saccadic Eye Movements in 5th Grade Children with Teacher-Reported Reading Problems.

Abstract: This research article focused on the Moro reflex, ATNR, TLR, and the STNR. The study found that children with retained primitive reflexes had reduced saccadic accuracy and decreased reading ability. The main reflexes associated with reading problems were the TLR and STNR. The information provided in this study may further determine if vision therapy should be implemented to inhibit primitive reflexes and to improve saccadic eye movements and reading skills.

Effect of Reflex Neuromodulation on an Infant with Severe Amniotic Band Syndrome: A Case Report on the use of MNRI Techniques for Physical Therapy

Side note: MNRI stands for Masgutova Neurosensorimotor Reflex Integration. Dr. Masgutova created the Masgutova Method, which is a set of programs that focus on motor reflex and sensory integration. She has studied how communication, cognitive, behavioral, and emotional regulation can be affected by motor reflex and sensory integration. Her website offers MNRI training.

This link is specifically to the page where you can learn about the importance of reflexes. From there you can click on other links of reflex examples, the importance of reflex integration and clinical observations.

Abstract: This research article focuses on using the MNRI method for physical therapy interventions with children born with amniotic band syndrome. Amniotic band syndrome is a rare congenital disorder that can lead to physical abnormalities, especially pertaining to an upper extremity. This article discusses how using the MNRI method can lead to new potential interventions and another tool to use in your therapy tool kit.

Reflex Based Interventions For Children with Autism and Developmental Disabilities: An Evidence-Based Practice Project

(This is a rather large document, consisting of 255 pages of information!)

Abstract: Their evidence-based PICO Question was: Are reflex-based interventions effective for improving occupational performance when treating children with autism and developmental disabilities? They focused on the MNRI method, reflex integration, and rhythmic movement training. Page 119 summarizes 5 research articles pertaining to reflex integration. Each category they focused on explains in depth a variety of articles all a part of their evidence-based practice project.

Integrated Learning Corner is a great website to learn about Primitive Reflexes.

Their reflex E-course contains 40 video lessons, a handbook, tracking sheets, reflex exercise schedule, observation materials, and the ability to join a private Facebook support group. If you aren’t sure you are ready to purchase the course, you can read some of the articles they’ve posted. They have three articles to learn about Primitive Reflexes. The articles are called:

1. RED FLAGS: Are These Warning Signs and Red Flags Telling Me My Child May Have a Retained Primitive Reflex Delaying their Learning Devel
2. Effectiveness of Primitive Reflex Integration and Innate Rhythmic Movements
3. MYTHS: The Myths about Retained Primitive Reflexes that could be Holding Your Child Back in their Learning and Motor Development.