Babinski's reflex

Considerations:
Reflexes are specific, predictable, involuntary responses to a particular type of stimulation.

The Babinski's reflex is one of the infantile reflexes; it is normal in children under 2 years old but disappears as the child ages and the nervous system becomes more developed. In people more than 2 years old, the presence of a Babinski's reflex indicates damage to the nerve paths connecting the spinal cord and the brain (the corticospinal tract). Because this tract is right- and left-sided, a Babinski's reflex can occur on one side or on both sides.

An abnormal Babinski's reflex can be temporary or permanent.

Common Causes:

Note: There may be other causes of an abnormal Babinski's reflex. This list is not all inclusive, and the causes are not presented in order of likelihood. The causes of this symptom can include unlikely diseases and medications. Furthermore, the causes may vary based on age and gender of the affected person, as well as on the specific characteristics of the symptom such as time course, aggravating factors, relieving factors, and associated complaints. Use the Symptom Analysis option to explore the possible explanations for an abnormal Babinski's reflex, occurring alone or in combination with other problems.

Home Care:
Typically, a person (older than an infant) who has a Babinski's reflex will also have incoordination , weakness , and difficulty with muscle control. Safety is important to prevent the risk of injury. The person may need assistance with activity, and the environment should be kept free of hazards.

Call Your Healthcare Provider If:
(This reflex is usually found by the health care provider during an examination.)

What to Expect:
The medical history will be obtained and a physical examination performed.

Medical history questions documenting this reflex in detail may include:

  • Have any other unusual symptoms been noted before this reflex developed?

Note: This finding is usually discovered by the health care provider, and the affected person usually was not aware of its presence.

The physical examination will probably include a complete nervous system (neurologic) examination.

Diagnostic testing may include:

After seeing your health care provider:
You may want to add a diagnosis related to a Babinski's reflex to your personal medical record.