What is Retained Primitive Reflex?

Primitive reflexes are movement patterns controlled by the brainstem, meaning they are automatic, stereotyped, and not influenced by cortical control. Under optimal conditions, these reflexes “initiate” at the appropriate stage of a child’s development, “integrate” into fully functioning reflexes, and then “inhibit” or fade away when it’s time to progress to the next developmental stage. This process is crucial for healthy development. If reflexes fail to initiate, integrate, or inhibit properly, the nervous system becomes stuck in a developmental holding pattern, preventing the natural maturation of neural systems. This can lead to mild to severe learning and performance challenges.

Retained  Primitive Reflex Affect Vision Development?

For children, retained reflexes often manifest as challenges in the classroom, where they struggle to meet academic and behavioral expectations for their grade level. Some children may develop coping techniques to get by or succeed, often with great effort. However, those who have the most difficulty coping may end up in special education or learning centers. These children are also at a high risk for behavioral and attitude problems, primarily due to years of frustration.

As these children and teens grow into adults, the challenges of retained reflexes can persist. Adults with reflex issues may face limited career options or may need to work significantly harder to succeed. In all cases, the common factor is the constant struggle and effort required to overcome the invisible pull of these reflexes.

Compensation Takes Great Effort

Throughout life, individuals strive to compensate for any retained reflexes. This compensation consumes a tremendous amount of energy. When under stress or after head trauma, those with retained reflexes may simply run out of energy to keep up with the compensations, becoming less able to cope.

As a person ages or injured, the energy required for these automatic compensations diminishes, and the reflexes themselves can re-emerge in reverse order. This results in fading abilities and increased frustration, as familiar tasks require greater effort.

Will Primitive Reflexes  be tested or Integrated in  Vision Care Program?

 Yes. Since the symptoms of retained primitive reflexes closely resemble those of learning-related visual problems. Therefore, it is crucial for us to test for these retained reflexes and to include Integrating retained reflexes into the our  vision care program. If any primitive reflexes are present, they can limit the progress made through vision therapy