PALMAR REFLEX Meaning and
Definition
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The palmar reflex, also known as the grasp reflex, is an inherent and involuntary response seen in infants when pressure is applied to the palm of their hand. This automatic reaction is characterized by the baby's fingers and hand tightly closing inwards, creating a noticeable grip. The palmar reflex is one of the primitive reflexes typically observed in newborns, though it tends to disappear between the ages of three and six months.
This reflex is believed to be a fundamental survival mechanism that aids infants in their early development. The palmar reflex serves as a means of grasping onto objects, such as a caregiver's finger or an offered support, providing a rudimentary form of interaction and attachment. This reflex can be triggered by various stimuli, including mild pressure or skin-to-skin contact with the baby's palm.
Although the palmar reflex is most commonly associated with infants, it can also emerge in adults, particularly in cases of certain neurological disorders or brain damage. In such instances, the persistence or re-emergence of the palmar reflex may indicate a loss of inhibitory control over the reflexive response, leading to the hand gripping objects involuntarily.
In conclusion, the palmar reflex is an instinctive action exhibited by newborns when pressure is applied to their palm, resulting in a firm and coordinated hand closing. This reflexual behavior aids in the early development and survival of infants, allowing them to grasp objects and establish early interactions.
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Flexion of the fingers following tickling of the palm.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for PALMAR REFLEX
- palmar refnex
- palmar refmex
- palmar reflux
- palmar reflmx
- palmar reflax
- palmar reflgx
- palmar refle8
- palmar refleh
- palmar reflep
- palmar refley
- pa lmar reflex
- pal mar reflex
- palm ar reflex
- palma r reflex
- palmar r eflex
- palmar re flex
- palmar ref lex
- palmar refl ex
- palmar refle x
Etymology of PALMAR REFLEX
The word "palmar reflex" derives from a combination of the Latin word "palma", meaning "palm", and the term "reflex". The Latin word "palma" itself comes from the Proto-Italic word "palmā", which is believed to trace back to the Proto-Indo-European root "*pl̥h₂-n-", meaning "flat hand" or "hollow of the hand". The term "reflex" originated from the Latin word "reflectere", which translates to "to bend back" or "to turn back". Therefore, the term "palmar reflex" refers to a reflex action involving the palm of the hand.
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