The Asymmetrical Tonic Neck Reflex, or ATNR is also known as the “fencer’s” reflex due to the similarity of a fencers position when triggered. Check out our primitive reflex article to learn more about the ATNR, when it is present, what it’s purpose is, and what you may see if the ATNR is retained.
This article will provide some exercises and movement patterns that you can perform to help with ATNR integration. If your kiddo has difficulty performing these activities or maintaining a good symmetry and form through the movements, the reflex may be present. If you have further concerns regarding ATNR integration, contact your local OT practitioner.
The 1st ATNR activity only requires an area to march across. This activity is all about maintaining form and position. Call them mummy walks, robot walks, zombie walks or whatever you want. Make it fun for your kiddo as long as they work to maintain the form.
- Step 1: Start by standing upright.
- Step 2: Extend the arms straight out in front of you at shoulder level, maintaining through the movement.
- Step 3: Turn the head 90 degrees to one side, maintaining that head position through the movement.
- Step 4: March forward maintaining the straight arms. Don’t forget to do both sides.
- Vary the activity by marching in place instead of marching forward. Add a greater challenge by marching backwards while maintaining the form.
- Provide cues to have them readjust their posture and positioning as they go, as needed.
Straight arm marches
Perform 20 marches 3-4 times/day
March with the head turned to the Right and then to the Left.
Incorporate the marches into your day marching from one room or activity to another.
Difficulty with the march
Observations
- The head may want to turn/rotate from the side
- The elbows and arms may want to bend
- The torso and arms may want to turn/rotate
- Difficulty maintaining the higher knee march
The 2nd ATNR activity requires bean bags or a small soft item, and floor space to crawl across. What you want to do is to tuck the bean bag under your chin and between the shoulder so the head is rotated to the side.
ATNR bean bag crawls
Perform 10 crawls to each side 3-4 times per day.
- Have races
- Increase the challenge by placing cushions or obstacles to crawl over
- Incorporate it into an obstacle course
- Crawl backwards!
Difficulty with the crawl
Observations
- Difficulty crawling
- Excessive bending of the elbows.
- Difficulty keeping the bean bag tucked in position
- Difficulty maintaining the rotated head position
- Awkward coordination and fluidity through the crawling movement
As you know, results are based on the effort you put into something, so consistency is key when performing these activities and movements. As your kiddos perform these ATNR movement patterns, provide the support and reminders about the form as needed. Remember, kiddos want to have fun so be creative in how you incorporate these activities and movements into your day. Have fun!
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