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Landau Reflex in Babies

Most infants exhibit the Landau reflex by the time they are 4 to 5 months old. A doctor can determine whether your infant has achieved this important developmental milestone with a simple test.

  1. Definition

    • The Landau reflex is a postural reflex that the infant needs to develop to sit and walk independently. It allows the child to strengthen muscle tone and refine motor skills.

    Identification

    • To test for the reflex, the doctor will hold the infant face down horizontally. The baby's head will raise up, while her trunk will be straight and her legs extended. When the doctor pushes the baby's head downward, her legs should drop as well. When the doctor releases the baby's head, both her head and legs should return to their original positions.

    Time Frame

    • The reflex can appear any time between 3 months to 10 months and disappears as the child matures, usually by the time he is 3 years old.

    Considerations

    • Assessing the Landau reflex is part of the routine physical examination for babies who are 6 months old.

    Considerations

    • If an infant lacks the Landau reflex, he may need to be evaluated for a motor development issue. Children with cerebral palsy can lack the Landau reflex.

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