Symmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex

The symmetrical tonic neck reflex is present in normal development from circa eight to eleven months of post-natal life. It can affect the ability to crawl on hands and knees. If it remains present in an older child, it can affect:

• Integration of upper and lower portions of the body, for example when swimming
• Sitting posture – a tendency to slump when sitting at a desk or table
• Poorly developed muscle tone
• Poor hand-eye coordination
• Ability to sit still and concentrate