Question
A four-day-old newborn often has their hands in a flat state or spreads their fingers when excited. When their hand is placed into the newborn’s hand, the grip strength is weak or they do not often clench their fist. Does this indicate a problem?
Answer
Based on the description, the newborn’s grasp reflex may be weaker, which could be an indication of neurological issues such as injury. In the early stages of newborns, reflexes such as grasping, embracing, and suckling are physiological reflexes, with the grasp reflex being relatively weak compared to the embrace and suckling reflexes. It is recommended to observe whether other reflexes are normal. If everything is normal, observation is mainly required. At the same time, attention should be paid to the newborn’s mental response, ability to suck and swallow, and muscle tone. If there are no abnormalities in these aspects, there is usually no need for special treatment.