Moro reflex

Definition

A reflex is a type of involuntary (without trying) response to stimulation. The Moro reflex is one of many reflexes that are seen at birth. It normally disappears after 3 or 4 months.

Considerations

Your baby's doctor will check for this reflex right after birth and during well-child visits.

To see the Moro reflex, the child will be placed face up on a soft, padded surface.

The head is gently lifted with enough support to just begin to remove the body weight from the pad. (Note: The infant's body should not be lifted off the pad, only the weight removed.)

The head is then released suddenly, allowed to fall backward for a moment, but quickly supported again (not allowed to bang on the padding).

The normal response is for the baby to have a startled look. The babies arms should move sideways with the palms up and the thumbs flexed. The baby may cry for a minute.

As the reflex ends, the infant draws its arms back to the body, elbows flexed, and then relaxes.

Causes

This is a normal reflex present in newborn infants.

Absence of the Moro reflex in an infant is abnormal.

Absence on both sides suggests damage to the brain or spinal cord.
Absence on only one side suggests either a broken shoulder bone or an injury to the group of nerves that run from the lower neck and upper shoulder area into the arm may be present (these nerves are called brachial plexus).

A Moro reflex in an older infant, child, or adult is abnormal.

What to Expect at Your Office Visit

An abnormal Moro reflex is usually discovered by the health care provider. The health care provider will perform a physical exam and ask questions about the child's medical history. Medical history questions may include:

History of the labor and birth
Detailed family history
Other symptoms

If the reflex is absent or abnormal, further tests may need to be done to examine the child's muscles and nerves. Diagnostic tests, in cases of decreased or absent reflex, may include:

Shoulder x-ray
Tests for disorders associated with brachial plexus injury

Review Date: 11/7/2011
Reviewed By: Neil K. Kaneshiro, MD, MHA, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

This information should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. © 1997- 2007 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.