Core Tendon Guard Reflex and Achilles Guard

 The Core Tendon Guard (CTG) Reflex appears in early infancy and is typically integrated by 1 year of age. This reflex is triggered by a perceived threat or sudden movement, causing an automatic contraction of the core muscles to provide stability and protect the spine and internal organs. 

The CTG Reflex plays a vital role in the development of core strength and postural control, serving as the body's natural defense mechanism to prevent injury. It is crucial during the early stages of development, as it helps the infant establish a stable base for movement and supports the alignment and protection of the spine as they begin to explore their environment.

The startle response, particularly in the form of a freeze reaction, triggers a full-body crush pattern that engages several key muscle groups, including the multifidus and intercostals. This reaction is not isolated but transmitted along the same fascia line as the originating stimulus, creating a cascading effect throughout the body. The Core Tendon Guard (CTG) reflex, activated in such moments, is an involuntary tightening of the muscles designed to protect the body's core. The startle reflex compresses the spine and thoracic cavity, constricting movement and creating a sense of "locking" in place, with the retinacula acting as points of transmission for the fascia’s response from head to toe. This reflex, engaging both superficial and deep fascial layers, effectively "crushes" the body inward, freezing posture and restricting fluid movement. Understanding this freeze reaction's transmission throughout the fascial system, particularly through the retinacula, lays the foundation for treatment strategies that focus on releasing this tension to restore natural mobility and nervous system balance.

When the CTG Reflex remains unintegrated or becomes reactivated in adulthood, it can lead to various physical and psychological challenges. Adults with an unintegrated CTG Reflex may experience chronic muscle tension, particularly in the abdominal and lower back regions, as the body remains in a constant state of readiness to protect itself. This can result in issues such as lower back pain, restricted movement, and difficulty relaxing the core muscles, leading to poor posture and an increased risk of injury. 

Additionally, an unintegrated CTG Reflex can contribute to anxiety and hypervigilance, as the body’s continuous activation of the core muscles can create a persistent sense of unease or stress. This reflex may also interfere with the ability to perform activities that require fluid and controlled movements, such as yoga, Pilates, or other forms of exercise that demand a relaxed yet stable core.

• Appears: Early infancy

• Integrated by: 1 year

• Muscles Involved: Core muscles (rectus abdominis, obliques), Diaphragm, Hip flexors, Lower back muscles (erector spinae)

• Extraordinary Meridians: Ren, Chong

• The Ren channel stabilizes the body's core.

• The Chong channel influences the trunk and abdomen. Both channels are critical for the core stability involved in this reflex.

• Acupuncture Points: CV4 (Guanyuan), ST25 (Tianshu), SP15 (Daheng)

• Myofascial Line: Deep Front Line (DFL)

• Cranial Nerves: Vagus nerve (CN X)

• Common Diagnoses: N/A

• Signs of Retention/Impact on ADLs:

• Difficulty with core stability and strength

• Challenges with postural control

• Issues with balance and coordination during movement

• Lower endurance and stamina

 
Achilles Reflex (variant of the Plantar Grasp Reflex)

The Achilles Reflex, a variant of the Plantar Grasp Reflex, appears at birth and is typically integrated by 2 years of age. This reflex is triggered when the Achilles tendon is tapped, causing the foot to jerk upward (plantar flexion). The Achilles Reflex plays a significant role in the development of the muscles and coordination needed for walking, running, and maintaining balance. It helps the infant strengthen the lower leg muscles and establish the necessary neuromuscular pathways for effective and coordinated movement.

If the Achilles Reflex remains unintegrated or becomes reactivated in adulthood, it can lead to several challenges related to gait, balance, and lower limb function. Adults with an unintegrated Achilles Reflex may experience excessive tension in the calf muscles, leading to stiffness, discomfort, and an increased risk of injuries such as Achilles tendonitis or calf strains. The reflex may also cause involuntary or exaggerated movements of the foot and ankle during activities like walking or running, resulting in an awkward or inefficient gait. This can contribute to difficulties in maintaining balance and stability, especially during activities that require quick changes in direction or speed. Additionally, the persistent activation of the Achilles Reflex may interfere with the ability to relax the lower leg muscles fully, leading to chronic tension, fatigue, and potential complications in the overall biomechanics of the lower body.

• Appears: Birth

• Integrated by: 2 years

• Muscles Involved: Calf muscles (gastrocnemius, soleus), Achilles tendon, Tibialis anterior

• Extraordinary Meridians: Yang Qiao

• The Yang Qiao channel affects the lateral aspects of the legs, including the ankle and foot, relevant for the Achilles tendon and the grasping motion of the foot.

• Acupuncture Points: BL60 (Kunlun), KD3 (Taixi), GB40 (Qiuxu)

• Myofascial Line: Superficial Back Line (SBL)

• Cranial Nerves: Tibial nerve (L4-S3) (Note: Peripheral nerve involved in the reflex pathway)