Masgutova Neurosensorimotor Integration Method:

At its core, the MNRI Method is designed to facilitate the emergence, maturation, and integration process of primary
reflex motor patterns for anyone, regardless of condition or age. To support the integration of primary reflex motor
patterns, MNRI Method program techniques have also been developed to integrate motor reflex movements
(subordinate components of primary motor reflex patterns) and tactile, visual, auditory, and proprioceptive sensory
systems.

ABOUT TH E M E TH OD › Wh y Reflex In teg ratio n is Imp o rtant

The nervous system contains many specialized subsystems, each moder ating and coor dinating a broad
rang e of specialized functions in the body as outlined in the following table (for more information go to Reflex
Physiology & the Nervou s System):

While each subsystem is responsible for specific functions, the integrated nature of the nervous system links and
coordinates subsystems to ensure and optimize the body’s overall long-term, near-term and immediate survival; using
information from one subsystem to moderate, balance, and optimize the function of the remaining systems. As we
learn about the intra-functional, specialized role each individual subsystem plays it is important to remember that the
functional health of one system can impact the functional health of other subsystems as well as the efficiency and
effectiveness of the body’s overall function. It is because of the intra- and inter-functional roles played by the
subsystems that primary infant motor reflex integration can :
 1. Signal the functional health of the somatic system’s underlying neural, sensory, and motor response
systems.
2. Inform the function of the autonomic nervous system, influencing its ability to moderate and coordinate
internal alarm states, and to regulate emotional and behavioral responses.
3. In conjunction with healthy autonomic function, provide the developmental foundation necessary for each
individual to reach his motor, communication, and cognitive potential.

As simple as it may seem, understanding the integration state of primary infant motor reflexes can arm professionals
and caregivers with the knowledge necessary to address the underlying cause of emotional and behavioral regulation
issues as well as maturational and developmental motor, communication, and cognitive challenges.

In teg ratio n & Fun c tio nal Health o f Neu ros en so rimo tor Sys tem

Integration can only occur when the neural, sensory, and motor circuits, supporting the function of each primary infant
motor reflex, are functioning in a healthy manner. A malfunction of any one of the underlying circuits can result in a
dysfunctional or pathological primary reflex. Because the nervous system is internal and so expansive, it is not easy to
uncover the hidden problems that can exist within its complex structure. Dysfunctional and pathological primary infant
reflexes help to isolate and reveal where in the body neural, sensory, or motor response bottlenecks exist. As a result,
when professionals and caretakers use Masgutova Method techniques to isolate neurosensorimotor challenges and to
facilitate the integration process, underlying issues related to the nervous system are also addressed. Because
nervous subsystems play both an intra- and inter-functional role, the integration of even one primary infant motor
reflex can often address a much broader cross section of challenges. For this reason, the more neurosensorimotor
bottlenecks that can be identified through dysfunctional and pathological reflexes, the greater the possibility of
improving a person’s overall function.

In teg ratio n & Auto n o mic Sys tem Health an d Fun c tio n

In the same way primary infant motor reflex integration can be used to signal and isolate underlying neural, sensory,
and motor response issues, emotional and behavioral dys-regulation can be used to signal autonomic system
challenges in moderating and coordinating the body’s internal alarm states. The autonomic system, when moderating
and coordinating internal states performs its role in response to external cues from the environment, allocating more or
less control to one of three subsystems based on the level of familiarity, the potential for danger, and the immediacy
associated with a challenge or threat, as outlined below.

1. The parasympathetic system is allocated predominant control in response to normal/familiar:

 Non-threatening changes in the environment

2. The sympathetic system is allocated predominant control in response to novel/unfamiliar:

  Typical life challenges
 Life challenges that involve potential for danger

3. And, the system managed by the non-myelinated vagus nerve is allocated predominant control in response to:

 Normal life-sustaining imperatives

 Sudden, unexpected, life-threatening events

The respective changes in the environment that trigger each autonomic subsystem to establish a predominant internal
state in the body, also trigger the somatic system to engage in a particular set of reflexive motor movement
responses. When both systems are functioning, as they should, the emotional and behavioral tone of somatic motor
movement responses align rationally with the internal states moderated and coordinated by the autonomic nervous
system. Because of this relationship, when primary infant motor reflexes are dysfunctional or pathological, the
autonomic system’s ability to appropriately moderate and coordinate internal states and regulate emotional and
behavioral responses can be compromised. When the function of the autonomic system is compromised, emotional
and behavioral responses often appear to be out of proportion relative to the magnitude of a change in the
environment or general event. The impact of a compromised autonomic system on general internal states can result in
responses that can range from being over-vigilant to being under-vigilant.

The following three tables provide a general characterization of the impact the autonomic nervous system can have on
the parasympathetic system, the sympathetic system and the system managed by the non-myelinated vagus nerve,
when autonomic function is normal versus when it is compromised.

Autonomic nervous system function and the parasympathetic system :

Autonomic nervous system function and the sympathetic system :
Autonomic nervous system function and the system managed by the non-myelinated vag us nerve :
In teg ratio n, th e Auto n o mic Sys tem & Reach ing Po tential

The sibling relationship that exists between the somatic and autonomic nervous systems, as the two major
subsystems of the peripheral nervous system, intimately intertwines their function. The autonomic and somatic
systems work in a symbiotic fashion, each to inform the other, to ensure the body’s long-term, near-term and
immediate survival, while optimizing the potential for development and growth. It is through the healthy function of
these two systems that the optimal foundation emotional and behavioral regulation and motor, communication and
cognitive maturation and development is best positioned to allow each of us to reach our full potential.
ABOUT TH E M E TH OD › Reflex In teg ratio n & Clin ical Ob s erv ation s
It has become apparent through the thousands of assessments completed by Dr. Masgutova that as the number of
non-integrated primary infant reflexes increase in an individual, the range and severity of motor, communication, and
cognitive challenges and emotional and behavioral regulation issues correspondingly increase. In 2004, Dr.
Masgutova and her team tracked primary infant reflex assessment results for a population of 850 children, ages 1-12.
The children and their conditions were classified according to the predominant diagnoses provided by their parents.
From this work emer ged the following general non-integrated reflex profiles for each characterized condition:

It is important to note that these are general, non-integrated reflexprofiles and are shared here to provide perspective
regarding the primary infant motor reflexes that might not be integrated for individuals diagnosed with these conditions.
Please remember that each individual is unique in their strengths and challenges and, therefore, should be assessed
by a qualified MNRI trained resource to determine the actual integration status of primary reflex patterns for each
individual.

Reflex integration can change lives. The verbally delayed child can begin to form intelligible sounds, words and/or
simple sentences. Individuals with hypertonic rigidity can begin to relax clenched fists, rigid arms and/or legs. The
disorganized may begin to move toward self-organization, the dysgraphic to write legibly, the sensory defensive to
tolerate sounds, sights and/or touch opening up positive interaction with the world, shifting from an inner state of
constant fear, distrust and concern to calm, wonder and joy. The progno sis and outcome for those accessing
MNRI Method techniques will var y based on the:

 Underlying cause of the condition -- Congenital disorders, trauma, chronic prolong or intermittent stress, or
disease.
 Which, how many, and to what extent the underlying neural, sensory and motor systems supporting reflex
function are challenged.
 Number and combination of primary infant reflexes are impacted as well as the developmental maturity of
each impacted reflex.
 Developmental time frame within which reflex integration work is completed -- before, during, or after the
typical maturation and integration time period, and the
 Rigor with which reflex integration work is completed.

Regardless of the magnitude, complexity, or apparent level of debilitation an individual faces, it is important to
understand that dysfunctional or more deeply pathological primary infant motor reflexes, when addressed with the right
combination of integration techniques, can lead to improved or even restored function. While the magnitude of the
underlying neurosensorimotor challenges may limit the degree of restoration when addressed with the right
combination of integration techniques, almost every individual may experience some level of functional improvement –
moving them a step closer to reaching their unique potential. The first step to beginning this process is simply learning
about the impact integrated primary infant reflexes can have on improved function. The next steps include
identification of dysfunctional or pathological reflexes and figuring out the best way to begin the integration process. To
learn more about beginning the integration process refer to our website section regarding treatment options. The
earlier underlying neurosensorimotor challenges can be identified, the easier it will be to minimize or even eliminate
the impact dysfunctional or pathological reflexes can have on overall maturation and development.

ABOUT TH E M E TH OD › How MNRI® Meth od Wo rks

The Masgutova Neurosensorimotor Reflex Integration (MNRI) process begins with a basic MNRI assessment to
identify whether dysfunctional or deeper pathological automatic primary motor reflex patterns are present. Once
challenged reflex patterns are identified, an MNRI treatment plan is created and the integration process can begin.
The information provided here is intended to provide a general overview of the terminology and steps important to
understanding the basic MNRI assessment and integration process. If you are interested in learning more about the
MNRI assessments and technique procedures, we encourage you to attend one or more of the MNRI continuing
education courses, beginning with the foundation course, Dynamic and Postural Reflex Integration. While all MNRI
courses are geared for professionals, parents and non-technical caregivers are welcome and quite often participate in
classes. Participants learn how to complete a basic assessment and apply the restorative techniques through lecture,
demonstration, and practical application.

The As s es s men t
The MNRI basic assessment is designed to determine the integration state of each primary motor reflex pattern. The
first step is to simply determine if a primary motor reflex pattern is active (not integrated) or not (integrated) . To
determine the current reflex pattern state, a sensory stimulus (specific to each reflex) is applied and the resulting
response is observed.

If there is no response, one of three circu mstances may be true:

1. The child is two months old or younger and the reflex is not yet expected to be present.
2. The reflex pattern has emerged, matured, and integrated to become a subordinate part of a more complex
automatic motor reflex scheme and learned motor skill.
3. The reflex never emerged when it should have and needs to be activated and integrated.

The first two conditions are considered normal and no action is necessary. The second condition, when achieved, acts
as a maturational milestone, ensuring subsequent normal maturation and development. The third condition, however,
is considered out of the ordinary and requires the attention of MNRI restorative techniques.

If there is a response, one of three circu mstances may be true:

1. The child is three or under and the primary reflex pattern is expected to be active and present (based on the
typical timetable) and does not require special attention at this time.
2. The reflex, after having appropriately integrated, has re-surfaced and needs to be re-integrated.
3. The reflex never integrated when it should have and needs to be integrated.

The first circumstance is considered normal, while the second and third require the attention of MNRI Method
restorative techniques.

After completing an MNRI Method assessment, the state of each reflex pattern is characterized as functional,
dysfunctional, or pathological. A functional reflex state indicates that the reflex is functioning as expected relative to
the typical maturational timetable, i.e. the reflex pattern is present and active when it should be or appropriately
integrated and not present as it should be. A dysfunctional state indicates that a reflex is actively present when it
should not be, and a pathological state, more severe in nature than a dysfunctional state, indicates that a reflex
motor response is:

 Reversed -- the opposite of what is expected,

 Incorrect – generating a response expected for some other stimulus, or
 A-reflexic -- generating no response at all, when it should.

Five parameters are used to evaluate the general functional state of each reflex pattern: pattern, direction, timing and
dynamics, intensity, and symmetry. Below is a more complete explanation about the role of each parameter in
determining the functional state of each reflex pattern.
Pattern
Is the sensory stimulus leading to the correct response or sequence of responses? Normal functioning of each reflex
pattern depends upon the appropriate coordination within the underlying neurosensorimotor mechanism. If the basic
pattern is incorrect, the body is signaling that dysfunction or deeper pathology exists within some component of the
reflex pattern’s underlying neurosensorimotor mechanism.

Direction
Is the reflex response occurring in the correct sequence and ending in the correct posture (static, postural reflexes) or
direction of movement (dynamic reflexes)? Each reflex consists of a specific sequence of movements that culminate in
a posture or are continued as movement in a specific direction. The muscle system coordinates these postures and
movements.

Timing & Dynamics

Is the reflex response occurring immediately after the stimulus is elicited or is there a delay? The reflex circuit involves
sensory input, brain processing, and motor response. The motor response must occur in a fraction of a second from
the moment at which the sensory stimulation began. The reaction must occur within a very short time, and it must be
quick because the purpose of a reflex is to protect.

Intensity
Does the strength of the response reflect the intensity of the stimulus? The intensity of a reflex is represented by the
amount of physical energy supplied by a system of muscles and ligaments in response to a stimulus. The strength of a
response should reflex the intensity of the stimulus. Too much, too little, or no response are all inadequate responses.

Symmetry
Is the symmetry of response apparent in the body structure, the reflex motion, response time and intensity of the
reaction? Motor reaction in a reflex circuit can be assessed by evaluating the bilateral structure of the body. Symmetry
can be seen in the body structure, in the motion of a reflex, in the response time, and in the intensity of reaction.

Ideally, an MNRI Method assessment begins by inviting your child or client to assume the reflex position in which
primary motor reflex pattern first emerged in infancy. Often pictures are used (from manual or support tools) to provide
a better understanding of the desired position. If a child is too young to understand verbal directions, he is gently
placed in position for the assessment to begin. Once in position, the basic elements of each reflex pattern is evaluated
(using the five reflex parameters noted above), followed by an evaluation of the variant elements of the reflex pattern.
Once basic and variant patterns have been evaluated, the state of each reflex pattern is determined, i.e. functional,
dysfunctional or pathological. The assessment continues in this same fashion until the functional state of each primary
motor reflex pattern has been determined. As Dr. Masgutova and many certified MNRI resources will attest, many
children and older clients that seek an MNRI assessment, simply cannot or will not assume or maintain any position
for long. While it can be challenging, certified MNRI resources who have participated in a number of MNRI Educational
Family Conferences, have been taught by Dr. Masgutova how to complete assessments regardless of the unique
physical, emotional and behavioral dynamics that may be present.
While every MNRI continuing education course provides the knowledge, demonstration, and hands-on practice
important for students to understand how to complete a basic MNRI assessment, the knowledge to complete an
advanced MNRI assessment develops only as MNRI resources reach higher MNRI certification levels through
advanced subject coursework, MNRI Educational Family Conference training, and extensive clinical application. For
children or older clients facing greater challenges, we encourage you to seek out the support of senior certified MNRI
resources to ensure the unique nuances of your child’s situation are addressed in the final MNRI treatment plan.

The MNRI In teg ratio n Pro c es s

Individual MNRI treatment plans vary based on the unique circumstances faced by each individual. Each treatment
plan consists of the set of primary motor reflex patterns found to be dysfunctional during an individual MNRI
assessmen t and include reflexes that:

 Integrated when they were supposed to but subsequently re-surfaced and need to be re-integrated
 Did not integrate when they should have and need to be integrated
 Never emerged when they should have and need to be activated and integrated

MNRI treatment plans vary in complexity depending upon the number of reflexes included in the plan and the level of
dysfunction present among the reflexes addressed in a particular plan. Regardless of the complexity, treatment plan
priority is often given to working on reflexes with the greatest potential to impact positive functional change. Individual
treatment sessions will often focus on a subset of reflexes to ensure that your child or client is not overwhelmed and
that each reflex addressed in a particular session receives the rigorous attention necessary to impact change in the
long run. While the specific MNRI techniques used to support the integration of each primary motor reflex is unique,
the steps followed to during the integration process generally occur as outlined below.

1. Sensory Motor Pairing

The process begins by pairing the appropriate reflex pattern sensory response with the appropriate motor
response, modeling for the body the correct stimulus response relationship. The pairing is first completed for
the basic elements of the reflex pattern, and then for the variant elements of the reflex pattern.
2. Integrating Exercises
A set of integrating exercises are applied to train all active aspects of a reflex pattern: • First working with the
basic reflex pattern,
• Next working against the basic reflex pattern, and
• Finally working with and against variants of the reflex pattern.
3. Repetition
Generally steps one and two are repeated up to three times for each individual reflex addressed in a
treatment session.
4. Reassessment of Reflex State
A quick re-check of the reflex state is often done to assess progress made during reflex session.
In general, MNRI Method techniques are relatively straightforward to implement whether in a clinic or home setting. It
is very important, however, that you proceed with under the guidance of a certified MNRI resource or acquire formal
training yourself to ensure the MNRI Method techniques are understood, applied correctly, and reinforced with the
spectrum of knowledge only more extensive MNRI training can provide. While primary motor reflex patterns remain
central to the MNRI Method, Dr. Masgutova has created a number of additional MNRI programs to reinforce and
optimize the impact of the basic primary motor reflex integration techniques.

ABOUT TH E M E TH OD › MNRI® Pro g rams

The Masgutova Neurosensorimotor Reflex Integration (MNRI) Method is comprised of a number of integration
programs, each designed to reinforce and optimize the integration of primary motor reflex patterns. Given the central
role of primary motor reflex patterns in the Masgutova Method, we encourage you to attend the MNRI Method
Dynamic and Postural Reflex Integration course first. This course covers all of the primary motor reflex patterns
central to the Masgutova Method. The remaining courses address specific sub-systems important to reinforcing and
optimizing the reflex integration efforts of the central primary motor reflex patterns. In saying this, however, we do not
want to diminish the importance of any one of the additional MNRI programs. Each program provides unique and
essential knowledge and techniques that independently provide benefits necessary for our overall well-being. While
each MNRI program can stand on their own, the power of the MNRI Method comes from the combined application of
multiple MNRI programs.

MNRI Method programs fall into one of two general classifications: Core MNRI Programs and Advanced MNRI Subject
Areas. As the titles suggest, Core MNRI Programs comprise the Core Programs of the MNRI Method. The most highly
trained MNRI resources, Certified MNRI Core Specialists are trained in all aspects of the Core MNRI Programs. All
other certified MNRI resources are working toward completing each of the Core MNRI Programs. Advanced MNRI
Subject Areas are reserved for MNRI students who have completed many of the Core MNRI Programs and would like
to supplement their basic knowledge with deeper, more specialized instruction.

Core MNRI® Pro g rams

There are nine different MNRI programs, each addressing a unique aspect of our functional development. The MNRI
techniques developed for each program work to improve specific variations of function in the body and all work to
reinforce and optimize the integration of primary motor reflex patterns. Each core MNRI program fits into one of the
three general categories as indicated below.

1. MNRI Whole Body Reflex Integration Programs

As the name implies, Whole Body Reflex Integration Programs impact the functional maturation of the whole body,
beginning in the womb and continuing through the early formative years. The individual MNRI progr ams included in
this catego ry are exp lained in more detail in the following links:
 Dynamic & Postural Reflex Integration Program Archetype Motor Reflex Movements Program

Birth & Post-Birth Reflex Integration Program Lifelong Reflex Integration Program

2. MNRI Body System Integration Programs

Body System Integration Programs focus on the integration of reflexes within specific systems in the body; specifically,
the facial and upper limb systems. Each subsystem is important to developing verbal and written communication skills
and other areas of development and, each, combined with other MNRI program techniques help to reinforce and
optimize the maturation and integration of primary motor reflex patterns. The individual MNRI progr ams included in
this catego ry are exp lained in more detail in the following links:

Upper Limb Reflex Integration &

Facial Reflex Integration Program
Manual Skills Development Program

3. MNRI Senso ry System Integration Programs

Sensory System Integration programs focus on the appropriate engagement of sensory systems in the
neurosensorimotor mechanism underlying all reflex function. Each sensory system plays an important role as an
informational conduit for the body to the outside world. If any one of the sensory systems misinterprets the magnitude
of input from the environment (i.e. overly sensitive and over-exaggerating or under sensitive and under-estimating
input) the resulting motor response will correspond to the magnitude of the misinterpretation and cause what appears
to be emotional and behavioral dysregulation. MNRI Sensory System Integration Program techniques work to restore
normal interpretive function to each functional sensory system. Improvement in interpretive function, in turn, can work
to improve emotional and behavioral regulation and enhance the maturation and integration process for primary motor
reflex patterns. The individual MNRI progr ams included in this catego ry are exp lained in more detail in the
following links:

Tactile System Integration Program Visual & Auditory Reflex Integration Program

Neuro-Structural Integration Program

Adv an ced MNRI® Su b jec t Areas

Advanced MNRI Subject Areas address basic Core Program content and techniques in greater depth. While these
courses are generally reserved for professionals pursuing higher levels of MNRI certification, parents who are
interested in attending a particular course and have completed the necessary course prerequisites, should contact us
at [email protected] to determine exception requirements to gain special approval for course admission.

Check out our advanced cour ses below:

Children with Challenges Dysfunctional & Pathological

Reflex Integration Reflex Integration

Neurosensorimotor Reflex
Reflex Advanced Assessment
Integration Points