The TLR reflex is activated by movement of the head both forwards and backwards. When a baby’s head is brought forward, the whole body, arms, legs and torso curl inwards into the characteristic foetal position. When the head moves backwards, the whole body, arms, legs and torso straighten and extend. The Tonic Labyrinthine Reflex helps an infant to start to defy gravity and master neck and head control outside of the womb.

 

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