The stepping reflex in newborns is also known as the "walking" or "dancing reflex". This reflex can be seen when a baby is held upright or when the baby's feet are touching the ground. It is prevalent from birth but gradually disappears by the time the baby has reached 2 to 3 months. This reflex occurs as a means to help develop proper development of the leg muscles and movement.
If this reflex does not occur in a newborn, it may indicate a motor nerve defect or a neurological malformation. Sometimes, this reflex will appear when the baby's lower half is submerged in water.
A newborn baby in Brazil had midwives convinced she could walk after her stepping reflex took effect just minutes after she was born.
More newborn reflexes:
- The spinal galant reflex
- Rooting and sucking reflex
- The Moro reflex
- Plantar reflex
- Asymmetrical tonic neck reflex
Sources: Children's Hospital of Philadelphia and PregMed.
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