Retained Spinal Galant Reflex: What Every Parent Should Know
Have you ever wondered why your child seems unusually fidgety, has trouble sitting still, or struggles with focus and attention? The root cause might surprise you—it could be a retained primitive reflex, specifically the Spinal Galant Reflex.
What Is the Spinal Galant Reflex?
The Spinal Galant Reflex is one of several primitive reflexes babies are born with. These reflexes are automatic movements controlled by the brainstem, and they help newborns survive and develop during early life.
The Spinal Galant Reflex appears around birth and typically fades by 9–12 months of age. When you stroke along one side of a baby's lower back, the hips should automatically move or "wiggle" toward the touch. This reflex helps with hip movement during birth and plays a role in early development, including crawling.
What Does It Mean When It's Retained?
When the Spinal Galant Reflex doesn’t integrate properly, it remains active beyond infancy. This is known as a retained reflex, and it can interfere with a child’s development, posture, and behavior.
Common Signs of a Retained Spinal Galant Reflex:
Fidgeting or hyperactivity
Bedwetting beyond the typical age
Poor endurance
Attention difficulties
Hip rotation to one side/scoliosis
Trouble with focus and concentration
Poor gross motor coordination
Poor posture
Poor short-term memory
Many of these symptoms overlap with ADHD, and in some cases, a retained reflex may contribute to behaviors commonly associated with attention disorders.
What Causes It to Be Retained?
There’s no single cause, but common contributing factors include:
C-section birth
Traumatic or very rapid delivery
Lack of tummy time in infancy
Delayed or skipped crawling
Neurological immaturity
How Is It Treated?
The good news is that a retained Spinal Galant Reflex can often be addressed through specific movement exercises designed to help integrate the reflex into the nervous system.
Treatment Options Include:
Occupational therapy (OT) or
Physical therapy (PT)
AND home-based reflex exercises under the guidance of a professional
Consistency is key—many of these exercises need to be done daily over several weeks or months for best results.
Should You Be Concerned?
Not all children with a retained Spinal Galant Reflex will experience serious issues, but if your child shows >2 of the signs mentioned above—especially alongside learning or behavioral challenges—it’s worth exploring.
Early identification and intervention can help your child feel more comfortable in their body, improve focus, and ease challenges at home and school.
Final Thoughts
Our children’s brains and bodies are incredibly complex, and understanding things like retained primitive reflexes can shine a light on behaviors that otherwise seem puzzling. If you suspect your child may have a retained Spinal Galant Reflex, consider talking to an occupational therapist or pediatric specialist trained in reflex integration.
It’s not about labels—it’s about understanding your child’s unique needs and giving them the best support to thrive.
References: Feldhacker, D., Cosgrove, R., Feiten, B., Schmidt, K., & Stewart, M. (2021). Relationship between retained primitive reflexes and scholastic performance. The American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 75(2). 7512505164p1.https://10.5014/ajot.2021.75S2-RP164
