Palmar grasp reflex

Palmar Grasp Reflex

The Palmar Grasp Reflex (pronunciation: /ˈpɑːlmər grɑːsp rɪˈflɛks/) is a primitive reflex found in infants and newborns. This reflex is characterized by the infant's hand closing into a fist when an object is placed in their palm. The Palmar Grasp Reflex is one of the many reflexes that doctors check for during the first few months of a child's life to ensure proper neurological development.

Etymology

The term "Palmar Grasp Reflex" is derived from the Latin word "palma" meaning palm, and the English words "grasp" and "reflex". The term accurately describes the action of the reflex, which involves the closing of the hand (grasp) in response to stimulation (reflex) of the palm (palmar).

Related Terms

Primitive reflexes: These are reflexes that are exhibited by normal infants in response to particular stimuli. The Palmar Grasp Reflex is one of these reflexes.
Moro reflex: This is another primitive reflex that involves a baby throwing back its head, extending out its arms and legs, crying, then pulling the arms and legs back in.
Rooting reflex: This reflex helps to ensure successful breastfeeding. When the corner of a baby's mouth is stroked or touched, the baby will turn its head and open its mouth to follow and "root" in the direction of the stroking.
Babinski reflex: This reflex is another primitive reflex in infants. When the sole of the foot is firmly stroked, the big toe bends back toward the top of the foot and the other toes fan out.