Abnormal movements in newborns

Abnormal movements in newborns: How to distinguish them from normal?

The movements of a newborn often appear to parents as chaotic, abrupt, and strange. Chin tremor, sleep jerks, clumsy hand flails — all of these are completely normal and indicate maturation of the nervous system. However, there are certain types of movements that may signal neurological problems and require a doctor's consultation.

What is normal for a newborn?

Let's first identify which "odd" movements are normal:

• Moro reflex: In response to a sudden sound or change in position, the baby abruptly throws the arms out to the sides and then brings them back in. This disappears by 3-4 months.
• Tremor and shaking: Fine trembling of the chin or limbs, especially during crying. It can usually be stopped by holding the limb.
• Sleep jerks (sleep myoclonus): Short body twitches during falling asleep or in the rapid eye movement phase.
• Asymmetric tonic neck reflex: When the baby turns the head to one side, the arm and leg on that side extend, while those on the opposite side bend ("fencing position").

When can movements be abnormal?

Parents should be alarmed by movements that are stereotyped, repetitive, and cannot be stopped. These may include:

• Seizures: Unlike tremor, seizure movements do not stop when you hold the limb. They may appear as rhythmic jerks, "pedaling" of the legs, or eye rolling.
• Persistent movement asymmetry: If the baby noticeably moves only one side of the body more actively while the other side is "spared".
• Opisthotonus: The baby arches the back in a curve, throwing the head backward. This can be a sign of serious nervous system injury.
• Persistent lethargy or, conversely, rigidity: Significant deviation from normal muscle tone.

The best approach for any doubts is to record the unclear movements on video and show it to a pediatrician. A short video clip is often far more informative for the doctor than a verbal description. Read more about newborn health and concerning symptoms on our website.