The tectospinal tract is involved in reflex movements of the head in response to visual and auditory stimuli. It originates in the superior colliculus of the midbrain and carries signals for reflexive head and neck movements in response to sensory input.
(onset age, integration, stimulus, response, relevance)>37 weeks gestation to 6 months stimulus: place infant in supine response: increased extensor tone
Asymmetrical tonic neck reflex is a pediatric reflex which appears at birth and dissapears between 4 and 6 months of age. To test this reflex, position the child in supine position with its head in midline and arms and legs relaxed, rotate head to right and left the child should look like a football player or fencer in response. They will extended the elbow and knee of the side you turn the head to and flex the elbow and knee of the opposite side.
The backbones in the region of the neck are called cervical vertebrae, numbering 7 in total. These vertebrae provide support and flexibility to the neck, allowing for a wide range of movements in the head and neck.
The external occipital protuberance serves as an attachment site for ligaments and muscles in the neck and back. It helps stabilize the head and neck and plays a role in supporting head movements.
An unusual signal from the brain causes involuntary movements of the head and neck. Sometimes it takes a good neurologist to trace down the source of those strange electrical signals.
The muscle between the neck and the shoulder is the trapezius muscle. It is a large, triangular shaped muscle that helps to move and stabilize the shoulder blades and support the neck and head. It is responsible for movements like shrugging the shoulders and tilting and turning the head.
spinal accessory nerve (a nerve that helps control speech, swallowing, and certain movements of the head and neck)
The trapezius and sternocleidomastoid muscles are synergistic muscles, meaning they work together to perform certain movements. They both contribute to movements involving the head, neck, and shoulder region, such as turning the head or elevating the shoulders.
The sternomastoid muscle is located in the neck and helps with rotation and flexion of the head. It is named for its insertion points on the sternum and mastoid process of the skull. It is a key muscle involved in movements of the neck and head.
The ciliospinal reflex causes pupil dilation when stimulated. This reflex is activated by pain or irritation on one side of the face or neck, resulting in dilation of the pupil on the same side.
Cranial reflexes are reflex actions that involve sensory input being processed in the brain before initiating a motor response. These reflexes are controlled by cranial nerves, which originate from the brainstem and innervate structures in the head and neck. Examples of cranial reflexes include the pupillary light reflex and the gag reflex.