Methods
Differential Diagnosis
The primary differential diagnosis was Primitive Reflex Integration Dysfunction, which was suggested by the persistence of multiple primitive reflexes beyond the typical age of integration. Other potential contributing factors, including neurodevelopmental disorders such as Autism Spectrum Disorder or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, were ruled out through clinical assessments and patient history.
Investigations:
A thorough neurological examination was conducted, focusing on the assessment of the primitive reflexes. The primitive reflexes evaluated included the Asymmetrical Neck Reflex, Symmetrical Neck Reflex, Tonic Labyrinthine Reflex (anterior and posterior), Spinal Galant Reflex, Grasp Reflex, Moro Reflex, and Paralysis by Fear Reflex. Each reflex was scored on a scale from 0 (integrated) to 4 (not integrated) (9).
Asymmetrical Neck Reflex. This reflex is assessed by turning the head to one side, which causes the arm and leg on the same side to extend, while the opposite limbs flex. The patient was observed for limb movement and muscle tone changes in response to head turning.
Symmetrical Neck Reflex. This reflex involves the flexion or extension of the neck, leading to corresponding movements in the arms and legs (e.g., neck flexion causes arm flexion and leg extension). The patient’s limb movements were observed in response to neck flexion and extension.
Tonic Labyrinthine Reflex - Anterior and Posterior. The anterior TLR is observed by tilting the head forward, which causes flexion of the limbs, while the posterior TLR is observed by tilting the head backward, causing limb extension. The patient was positioned to observe the limb responses to head tilting in both forward and backward directions.
Spinal Galant Reflex. This reflex is tested by stroking the skin along the side of the spine, which should cause lateral flexion of the trunk toward the stimulated side. The patient’s trunk movement was observed in response to stimulation along the spine.
Grasp Reflex. This reflex is tested by placing an object in the palm of the hand, which should cause the fingers to close around it. The patient’s grasping response was observed when an object was placed in their hand.
Moro Reflex. This reflex is elicited by a sudden loss of support, causing the arms to spread out, then pull back in, and usually followed by crying. The patient’s reaction to a sudden change in head position was observed.
Paralysis by Fear Reflex. This reflex is characterized by a freezing response when the patient perceives a sudden threat. The patient’s reaction to sudden, loud noises was observed to determine the presence of the reflex.
All evaluations were carried out in a controlled environment, with a consistent temperature of 22.51±0.2ºC and humidity of 42.1±1.1%.
Treatment:
In this study, participant received a customized functional neurology treatment based on the methodologies of ®NeuroReEvolution (http://nre-therapy.com/). The treatment began with a detailed clinical assessment, including verbal and visual evaluations and specific neurology examinations of joints, to identify each participant’s unique neurological issues. A certified professional with Level III certification in the Functional Neurology Manual Muscle Test from ®NeuroReEvolution provided personalized therapy tailored to correct these imbalances (7). The treatment focused on enhancing proprioceptive reflexes, reducing trigger point sensitivity, and adopting a holistic approach. Proprioceptive reflexes, which respond to physical changes such as muscle stretching or tendon compression, are essential for posture, balance, and movement regulation. The therapy aimed to correct abnormalities in these reflexes that could cause discomfort or restrict movement. It also targeted dysfunctional mechanoreceptors and nociceptors integrating the functional response by a blink reflex. This holistic approach considered the body as an integrated system, addressing both localized dysfunctions and related conditions that might impact overall neuromuscular health (5).