Definition

Gross control means the ability to make large, general movements (such as waving an arm or lifting a leg). It requires the proper integration of muscle, bones, and nerve function.

Information

Gross control is a milestone in the development of an infant. As an infant's neurological system matures, he or she is able to refine unintentional, random, uncontrolled movements.

Infants develop gross motor control before they develop fine motor control (mastery of small, precise movements).

Review Date:7/28/2005
Reviewed By: Kevin Sheth, M.D., Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.