Grasp reflex
Grasp reflex
The grasp reflex (/ɡrɑːsp rɪˈflɛks/), also known as the palmar grasp reflex or hand grasp reflex, is an involuntary reflex observed in infants and some adults in response to a stimulus applied to the palm of the hand.
Etymology
The term "grasp reflex" is derived from the English word "grasp", meaning to seize or hold firmly, and the Latin word "reflexus", meaning a bending back.
Description
The grasp reflex is a primitive reflex found in infants that is present from birth and fades around six months of age. When an object is placed in the infant's hand and strokes their palm, the fingers will close and they will grasp it. The grip is strong but unpredictable; though it may be able to support the child's weight, they may also release their grip suddenly and without warning. The reverse motion can be induced by stroking the back or side of the hand.
Related Terms
- Primitive reflexes: These are reflexes that are exhibited by normal infants and not neurologically intact adults, in response to particular stimuli.
- Moro reflex: This is another primitive reflex in infants, which involves a response to a sudden loss of support and involves three distinct components.
- Rooting reflex: This is a reflex seen in normal newborn babies, who automatically turn the face toward the stimulus and make sucking (rooting) motions with the mouth when the cheek or lip is touched.
- Babinski reflex: This is a physical response to the sole of the foot being stroked. The big toe then moves upward or toward the top surface of the foot. The other toes fan out.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Grasp reflex
- Wikipedia's article - Grasp reflex
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