Symmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex

Test of Symmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex

The symmetrical tonic neck reflex contributes to difficulty in maintaining a quadruped position. Flexion of the head causes of the arm to flex and the child collapses forward. Extension of the head causes the arms to extend and the legs to flex, and the child with cerebral palsy sits back on the flexed legs. This sitting position is often observed in young  children with spasticity and “ bunny hopping “ in this position becomes their means of locomotion.

Symmetrical tonic neck reflex is brain stem reflex bellow is a the procedure test symmetrical tonic neck reflex:

Test position of symmetrical tonic neck reflex :

-   patient in quadruped, position or over, tester’s knees.

Symmetrical tonic neck reflex test stimulus :

-   Ventroflex the head

-   Dorsiflex the head

Negative Reaction of symmetrical tonic neck reflex :

-   No change in tone of arms or legs

Possitive reaction of symmetrical tonic neck reflex :

-  Arms flex or flexor tone dominates ; legs extended or extensor tone dominates

Symmetrical tonic neck reflex positive reaction is normal up to four to six months of age, positive reaction after six months of age may be one indication of delayed reflexive maturation.

Tags: stnr, stnr reflex, symmetrical tonic neck reflex, tonic neck