List of reflexes
List of Reflexes[edit | edit source]
A reflex is an involuntary and nearly instantaneous movement in response to a stimulus. Reflexes are crucial for survival as they enable quick reactions to potential threats. This article provides a comprehensive list of reflexes in humans and animals.
Human Reflexes[edit | edit source]
Primitive Reflexes[edit | edit source]
Primitive reflexes are reflexes that are exhibited by normal infants, but not often by adults. They include:
- Moro reflex - This reflex is present at birth and disappears around 3-4 months of age. It involves a startled response to sudden changes in sensory stimuli.
- Rooting reflex - This reflex assists in breastfeeding. When the corner of a baby's mouth is stroked, the baby will turn its head and open its mouth to follow and "root" in the direction of the stroking.
- Sucking reflex - This reflex causes a baby to suck when an object is placed in its mouth or touches its lips.
Postural Reflexes[edit | edit source]
Postural reflexes help us maintain balance and posture. They include:
- Righting reflex - This reflex helps to maintain the body's orientation in space and restore the normal position after being displaced.
- Stretch reflex - This reflex helps to maintain muscle tone and protect the body from muscle damage.
Spinal Reflexes[edit | edit source]
Spinal reflexes are those that do not require input from the brain. They include:
- Patellar reflex - This reflex is elicited by a tap on the patellar tendon, which stretches the quadriceps muscle of the thigh, causing it to contract and the lower leg to kick forward.
- Withdrawal reflex - This reflex occurs when the body withdraws from a painful stimulus.
Animal Reflexes[edit | edit source]
Animals also exhibit a variety of reflexes, some of which are similar to human reflexes. They include:
- Righting reflex - This reflex is present in cats and allows them to land on their feet when they fall.
- Gag reflex - This reflex prevents animals from choking or swallowing potentially harmful substances.
- Pupillary light reflex - This reflex controls the diameter of the pupil in response to the intensity of light that falls on the retina.
See Also[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
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