At what age does a newborn typically present with a flexed posture and low tone?

A newborn typically presents with a flexed posture and low tone, which is an expected characteristic of their musculoskeletal system right after birth. This flexed posture is a result of their development in utero, where they have been in a confined space and have maintained a curled position. Newborns often exhibit low muscle tone (hypotonia) and will show a preference for a flexed position with their limbs.

As they grow, infants begin to develop more control over their muscles, transitioning from this initial flexed posture as they reach developmental milestones. By around 2 months of age, infants start to extend their limbs more and display increased tone as their muscle strength improves. By 4 months, they will further progress in their development, showing increased strength and control. By 6 months, babies typically demonstrate greater muscle tone and more voluntary movement, moving away from the initial flexed and low-tone posture.

Understanding these developmental patterns is crucial for identifying normal growth and addressing any potential concerns regarding motor development in infants.