Vertical suspension response is elicited by holding the neonate with both hands under the axillas and lifting the neonate up. A hypotonic neonate shows poor shoulder support, the head drops, and the lower extremities remain extended and limp (Figure 89.1 [A]). A normal neonate shows good shoulder and head support and flexion at the hips, knees, and ankles (Figure 89.1 [B]).

A	B

Figure 89.1.— [A] Hypotonic vertical suspension response (Click on figure). [B] Normal vertical suspension response.