Retained Primitive Reflexes and Brain Hemisphere Development: Unlocking the Brain’s Full Potential
Many people have heard of primitive reflexes—the automatic movements that help infants survive and develop in their early months. But what happens when these reflexes don’t integrate properly? Research suggests that retained primitive reflexes can disrupt brain hemisphere development, affecting everything from learning and coordination to emotional regulation and focus.
What Are Primitive Reflexes?
Primitive reflexes are involuntary movement patterns present at birth. They help with survival (such as sucking for feeding) and early motor development (like the Moro reflex, which triggers a baby’s startle response). These reflexes are supposed to naturally integrate as the brain matures, allowing more advanced, controlled movements to take over.
However, when primitive reflexes fail to integrate, they can interfere with the body’s ability to move, learn, and regulate emotions properly. This is particularly relevant in conditions like:
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Dyslexia & other learning differences
Dyspraxia (developmental coordination disorder)
ADHD & focus-related challenges
How Retained Reflexes Impact Brain Hemisphere Development
Dr. Robert Melillo, a leading researcher in functional neurology, has extensively studied the link between primitive reflexes and brain hemisphere imbalance. His research shows that retained reflexes can indicate underdevelopment or dysfunction in one hemisphere of the brain, leading to difficulties with sensory processing, coordination, and cognitive functions.
For example:
🧠 Left Hemisphere Weakness (often seen in Dyslexia & ADHD)
Struggles with reading, writing, and sequencing information
Difficulty with logic, organization, and task completion
Impulsivity and attention issues
🧠 Right Hemisphere Weakness (often seen in Autism & Dyspraxia)
Challenges with social cues, emotional regulation, and sensory overload
Poor spatial awareness and motor coordination
Difficulty seeing the "big picture" in learning and communication
By addressing retained primitive reflexes, we can help restore balance between the brain hemispheres, improving function across multiple areas of life.
Scientific Research on Primitive Reflexes and Development
Studies have explored how retained primitive reflexes impact neurodevelopmental disorders and motor coordination. A peer-reviewed study published in the Frontiers in Pediatrics journal found a strong correlation between unintegrated primitive reflexes and developmental delays, particularly in children with learning difficulties and ADHD.
📖 Reference:
Zoccolillo, M., Muscara, M., Reilly, S., & Schuster, J. (2020). Retained primitive reflexes and their association with motor and cognitive performance in children. Frontiers in Pediatrics, 8, 50. DOI: 10.3389/fped.2020.00050
This study supports the idea that addressing retained reflexes can improve brain function, motor skills, and cognitive abilities—making it a crucial area of focus for neurodevelopmental therapy.
Turning Off Retained Reflexes for Better Brain-Body Integration
At Neuro Harmony, we use targeted movement techniques designed to turn off retained primitive reflexes and stimulate the weaker hemisphere of the brain. This helps create a more balanced and efficient nervous system, leading to:
✅ Improved Focus & Learning – Clearer thinking, better reading, and stronger memory
✅ Smoother Coordination & Movement – Enhanced balance, posture, and motor skills
✅ Emotional Regulation & Sensory Processing – Less overwhelm, fewer meltdowns, and better self-control
The Research Speaks for Itself
Dr. Melillo’s groundbreaking work in Functional Disconnection Syndrome shows that many neurological challenges are not permanent disabilities, but rather a result of imbalanced brain development. By retraining the brain through specific movement and sensory exercises, we can help integrate these reflexes and unlock greater potential.
Is Your Brain Working in Balance?
If you or your child struggle with focus, coordination, or emotional regulation, retained primitive reflexes may be at the root of the issue. Addressing these reflexes can make a profound difference in daily life.
💡 Want to Learn More? Click here to explore how Neuro Harmony can help!