3 Retained Primitive Reflexes Responsible for Poor Balance

As we explore the effects of retained Primitive Reflexes, one of the most significant outcomes is poor balance in children. Balance plays a foundational role in a child’s physical development, learning ability, and behavioral responses. When primitive reflexes fail to integrate, it can lead to noticeable challenges in postural stability and movement control.

3 Key Retained Reflexes That Affect Balance

Among the various primitive reflexes, three are particularly influential when retained: the Tonic Labyrinthine Reflex (TLR), the Symmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex (STNR), and the Asymmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex (ATNR). Children who exhibit balance difficulties should be assessed for these reflexes. Identifying these early can help address delays in posture, motor skills, and even concentration issues that resemble ADHD.

The Vestibular System and Retained Reflexes

The vestibular system — responsible for balance and spatial orientation — is the first sensory system to fully develop. If disrupted by retained reflexes, children may struggle with coordination, learning, and emotional regulation. Movement, posture, and attention can all be compromised when these reflexes are not properly integrated.

Tonic Labyrinthine Reflex (TLR) and Its Role in Balance

The TLR is directly linked to the vestibular system, influencing a child’s ability to maintain balance and body position. When this reflex is retained, it can impair a child’s posture and ability to focus, especially during seated tasks. Children may slump forward or extend their limbs involuntarily when tilting their heads, leading to fatigue and poor academic performance.

Other signs of a retained TLR include difficulty walking or running, trouble riding a bike, and clumsiness in navigating around objects. Activities requiring dynamic balance, like sports or tracking words on a page, can also be challenging. Intervention is essential to help these children improve coordination and learning outcomes.

Symmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex (STNR) and Postural Control

The STNR helps coordinate upper and lower body movements. If it remains active beyond infancy, it can cause poor posture and difficulty sitting still. Children may appear fidgety, slouched, or constantly shifting their position in class due to the body’s inability to maintain stability while seated.

For example, a child may stretch their legs straight under the desk while holding a book with bent arms. Asking them to sit upright often activates the reflex, triggering discomfort or imbalance. These children might wrap their legs around a chair for support or exhibit restlessness, all signs pointing to a retained STNR.

Asymmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex (ATNR) and Dynamic Balance

When the ATNR remains unintegrated, it significantly impacts head movement and coordination. Reading across a page or writing from left to right becomes difficult, as each head turn can trigger involuntary arm or leg movement. This hinders focus, attention, and academic tasks like copying from the board.

In some cases, a retained ATNR can even cause symptoms like dizziness or disorientation, making classroom learning more challenging. Without proper head mobility, key developmental skills such as handwriting and reading fluency may be delayed.

Understanding the relationship between primitive reflexes and balance is crucial for supporting a child’s physical and cognitive development. Early detection of retained reflexes — particularly the TLR, STNR, and ATNR — can open the door to effective interventions. These can enhance coordination, posture, focus, and overall learning potential.

To learn more about how primitive reflexes affect development and how to support your child, download our comprehensive guide to Primitive Reflexes below.