What reflex causes an infant's toes to fan out when the foot is stroked?

What reflex causes an infant's toes to fan out when the foot is stroked?

• A. Babinski reflex
• B. Moro reflex
• C. Grasp reflex
• D. Rooting reflex

Answer: (A)

The reflex that causes an infant's toes to fan out when the foot is stroked is known as the Babinski reflex. This reflex is a normal response observed in infants, typically until about 2 years of age. When the sole of the foot is stroked from heel to toe, the toes will spread apart, with the big toe often extending upward. The Babinski reflex indicates healthy neurological development in infants. The presence of this reflex shows that the infant's central nervous system is functioning correctly as it is a developmental milestone. In contrast, adults exhibit a different response, known as the plantar reflex, where the toes curl down instead of fanning out. Other reflexes listed have different purposes and characteristics. The Moro reflex is characterized by a startle response, where an infant throws out their arms and legs and then quickly retracts them, typically in response to a loud noise or sudden movement. The grasp reflex occurs when an object is placed in an infant's palm; they will automatically grasp it. The rooting reflex is the automatic turning of an infant's head toward a stimulus that touches their cheek, typically to help them locate a source of food. Understanding these reflexes helps in assessing and monitoring an infant's development.

The reflex that causes an infant's toes to fan out when the foot is stroked is known as the Babinski reflex. This reflex is a normal response observed in infants, typically until about 2 years of age. When the sole of the foot is stroked from heel to toe, the toes will spread apart, with the big toe often extending upward.

The Babinski reflex indicates healthy neurological development in infants. The presence of this reflex shows that the infant's central nervous system is functioning correctly as it is a developmental milestone. In contrast, adults exhibit a different response, known as the plantar reflex, where the toes curl down instead of fanning out.

Other reflexes listed have different purposes and characteristics. The Moro reflex is characterized by a startle response, where an infant throws out their arms and legs and then quickly retracts them, typically in response to a loud noise or sudden movement. The grasp reflex occurs when an object is placed in an infant's palm; they will automatically grasp it. The rooting reflex is the automatic turning of an infant's head toward a stimulus that touches their cheek, typically to help them locate a source of food. Understanding these reflexes helps in assessing and monitoring an infant's development.