FOOT REFLEXES IN NEONATES
What is withdrawal reflex? Brisk flexion of the limb which occurs in response to a noxious stimulus, such as a pin prick applied to the sole of the foot. It is commonly unobtainable in children with a meningomyelocele. It may be absent or weak in a baby born as a breech with extended legs. What is crossed extension reflex? It is usually elicited by holding one leg extended at the knee and applying firm pressure to the sole or stroking it on the same side. The free leg flexes, adducts and then extends, giving the impression of attempting to push away the stimulating agent. It is not normally obtained after the first month. It may be obtained in the preterm baby, but the adduction component of the reflex does not appear until the 37th week ...