Moro Reflex

 The Moro Reflex, distinct from the Startle Reflex, is a higher-order primitive reflex that appears at birth and is typically integrated by 4-6 months of age. This reflex is triggered in response to a sudden loss of support, such as when the infant feels as if they are falling. Upon activation, the infant abruptly extends their arms and legs, opens their hands, then brings their arms together as if to grasp something, often accompanied by crying. The Moro Reflex is crucial for early survival, helping the infant respond to sudden changes in their environment. This reflex engages multiple cranial nerves, including the vestibulocochlear nerve (CN VIII) for processing balance-related stimuli and the accessory nerve (CN XI) for coordinating the motor response of arm movement. Proper integration of the Moro Reflex is essential for healthy neurological development.

When the Moro Reflex remains unintegrated into adulthood or becomes reactivated due to trauma or stress, it can lead to a range of challenges. Adults may exhibit heightened sensitivity to sensory stimuli, resulting in an exaggerated startle response even in non-threatening situations. This can manifest as overreacting to sudden noises, bright lights, or unexpected touch, often leading to chronic anxiety and difficulty calming down after being startled. The constant state of hypervigilance associated with an unintegrated Moro Reflex can contribute to sleep disturbances, difficulty concentrating, and a pervasive sense of being on edge. Physical symptoms may also arise, including balance and coordination issues, as the reflex can disrupt the body's ability to regulate posture and motor control. In these cases, the unintegrated or reactivated Moro Reflex can significantly impair an individual's ability to feel secure and relaxed, affecting both their physical and emotional well-being.

• Appears: Birth
• Integrated by: 4-6 months
• Muscles Involved: Shoulder girdle muscles (deltoids, rotator cuff), Upper trapezius, Latissimus dorsi, Neck extensors
• Extraordinary Meridians:                                                                                                 Chong, Dai
• The Chong channel influences the trunk and abdomen, involved in the flexion and extension movements of the Moro Reflex.
• The Dai channel encircles the waist and supports the trunk's stability during this reflex.
• Acupuncture Points: REN12 (Zhongwan), REN14 (Juque), GB25 (Jingmen), LV13 (Zhangmen)
• Myofascial Line: Superficial Back Line (SBL)
• Cranial Nerves: Accessory nerve (CN XI), Vagus nerve (CN X), vestibulocochlear nerve (CN VIII), accessory nerve (CN XI)
• Common Diagnoses: ADD, ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder

·         Signs of Retention/Impact on ADLs:

o    Hypersensitivity to sensory input, Vestibular deficits (motion sickness, poor coordination)

o    Oculomotor and visual-perceptual issues, Poor pupillary reactions to light

o    Auditory hypersensitivity

o    Adverse drug reactions, Poor stamina and adaptability