Trunk incurvation reflex

Trunk Incurvation Reflex, also known as the Galant Reflex, is a primitive reflex found in newborns. This reflex is an important indicator of the neurological development of an infant. It is named after Johann Susmann Galant, a Russian neurologist who described this reflex in detail.

Overview

The Trunk Incurvation Reflex is observed when the skin along the side of an infant's spine is stroked or stimulated. In response, the infant will curve towards the side that was stroked. This reflex typically appears at birth and fades around the age of 4 to 6 months. The presence and symmetry of this reflex are important indicators of the integrity of the baby's nervous system.

Procedure

To test for the Trunk Incurvation Reflex, an infant is placed in a prone position (lying on the stomach). The examiner then gently strokes one side of the spine from the shoulder to the hip. The normal response is for the infant to laterally flex the trunk towards the stimulated side. This reflex is tested on both sides of the spine to ensure it is present and symmetrical.

Clinical Significance

The Trunk Incurvation Reflex is used by healthcare professionals to assess the neurological development and integrity of the spinal cord and brain in newborns. An absent or asymmetrical Trunk Incurvation Reflex may indicate neurological problems or developmental delays. Therefore, it is an important component of the neurological examination of infants.

Disappearance

The reflex begins to diminish around the age of 2 months and is usually completely absent by 4 to 6 months of age. The disappearance of this reflex is a normal part of the neurological maturation process in infants. Persistence of the Trunk Incurvation Reflex beyond 6 months of age may require further neurological evaluation to rule out any underlying conditions.

See Also

• Primitive reflexes
• Neurological examination
• Infant development