DiscoverAll Things Sensory by Harkla#383 - Low Muscle Tone or Retained Reflex? How to Decode the Signs
#383 - Low Muscle Tone or Retained Reflex? How to Decode the Signs

#383 - Low Muscle Tone or Retained Reflex? How to Decode the Signs

Update: 2025-10-22
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Description

Primitive Reflex Digital Course https://harkla.co/products/primitive-reflexes-course


NEW Motor Skills Digital Course is LIVE! https://harkla.co/products/motor-skills-course


In this episode, we break down the difference between low core strength and a retained Tonic Labyrinthine Reflex (TLR), a primitive reflex that plays a huge role in posture, coordination, and motor development. Whether you’re a parent, therapist, or educator, this episode will give you the tools to better understand and support the children in your life.

What You'll Learn in This Episode

  • Why primitive reflexes matter for movement, attention, and emotional regulation

  • The Tonic Labyrinthine Reflex (TLR): what it is, how it develops, and what happens if it doesn’t integrate

  • Signs of low core strength vs. signs of a retained TLR during the Superman position

  • How muscle tone challenges connect to reflexes

  • Practical strategies to assess and address both core weakness and retained reflexes

  • Tips for parents and professionals to create fun, consistent, and effective routines

LINKS

We’d love to answer your questions on the podcast! Fill out this form - ⁠https://harkla.typeform.com/to/ItWxQNP3⁠

All Things Sensory Podcast Instagram 

https://www.instagram.com/allthingssensorypodcast/ 

Harkla Website 

https://harkla.co/ 

Harkla YouTube

https://www.youtube.com/c/HarklaFamily 

Harkla Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/harkla_family/ 

Harkla Digital Courses

https://harkla.co/collections/courses 

Muscle Tone vs. Muscle Strength

https://harkla.co/blogs/podcast/108-muscle-tone-vs-muscle-strength 

Research Article - The Relationship Between Primitive Reflexes and Motor Proficiency 

https://brieflands.com/articles/jmcl-158078.pdf 

SPD Sale 
https://harkla.co/pages/spd-awareness-month-2025

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#383 - Low Muscle Tone or Retained Reflex? How to Decode the Signs

#383 - Low Muscle Tone or Retained Reflex? How to Decode the Signs

Rachel Harrington, COTA/L, AC & Jessica Hill, COTA/L