Newborn twitching is a common observation for many parents. These sudden, involuntary movements are typically a normal part of early development. While the sight of a twitching newborn can be unsettling, most instances are harmless and do not indicate a serious underlying condition. This phenomenon is generally temporary, resolving as the baby matures.
Common, Harmless Reasons
One frequent reason newborns twitch is benign neonatal sleep myoclonus (BNSM). This involves jerky movements occurring exclusively during sleep, particularly during active sleep stages like REM sleep. These twitches often affect the arms, legs, or torso, ceasing immediately when the baby wakes up. Researchers suggest these sleep-related twitches might contribute to motor skill development by activating brain circuits and mapping the sensorimotor system.
The Moro reflex, also known as the startle reflex, is another common cause. This involuntary response occurs when a baby is startled by a loud noise, sudden movement, or the sensation of falling. During the Moro reflex, the baby extends their arms and legs, arches their back, and then pulls their limbs back towards their body, sometimes accompanied by crying. This reflex indicates a developing nervous system and usually disappears by 3 to 6 months of age.
The immature nervous system of newborns also contributes to uncoordinated, jerky movements. Undeveloped pathways carrying signals from the brain to the body lead to tremors and jitters. These movements are especially noticeable when the baby is crying, hungry, or falling asleep, becoming smoother as the nervous system matures, typically by 1 to 2 months of age. Brief, isolated muscle jerks, even when awake, can also be normal, often linked to hunger or discomfort.
When to Be Concerned
While many twitches are benign, certain characteristics might suggest a more serious issue, such as a seizure. Repetitive and rhythmic movements, like bicycling motions of the legs, lip smacking, or unusual eye deviations, can be concerning. These might indicate abnormal electrical activity in the brain.
Twitching that cannot be easily stopped by touching or repositioning the baby is a red flag. Normal newborn twitches, including benign neonatal sleep myoclonus, typically stop when the baby is aroused or their limb is gently held. If movements persist despite attempts to soothe or reposition the infant, medical evaluation is warranted.
Twitches accompanied by other concerning signs, such as changes in breathing patterns, alterations in skin color (like turning blue, purple, or gray), or a change in consciousness, require immediate attention. Movements affecting only one side of the body or those occurring when the baby is awake and alert, rather than just during sleep, can also indicate a neurological issue. Seizures in newborns can be subtle, sometimes manifesting as only eye-rolling or staring.
Distinguishing and Responding to Twitches
Distinguishing between normal twitches and those that warrant concern involves careful observation. Parents should note the duration and frequency of movements, whether they are isolated or occur in clusters, and if any other symptoms accompany them.
If concerning signs are present, contact a pediatrician immediately. These include repetitive, rhythmic movements that don’t stop with arousal, or twitches accompanied by changes in breathing or color. Pediatricians consider any fever above 100.4°F in a newborn, combined with unusual movements, a reason for urgent evaluation. Trusting parental instinct is important; if something feels wrong, seeking professional medical advice is always appropriate.
Documenting observations can greatly assist a healthcare provider. Video recording twitching episodes, capturing their duration, type, and any accompanying symptoms, provides valuable information. This visual evidence helps the pediatrician differentiate between benign movements and potential neurological conditions, guiding diagnosis and care.