Gross motor control

Definition

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

Information

Gross motor control is a milestone in the development of an infant.

Infants develop gross motor control before they develop the ability to make small, precise movements known as fine motor control.

References

Gordon-Lipkin E, Lipkin PH, Developmental and behavioral surveillance and screening. In: Kliegman RM, St Geme JW, Blum NJ, et al, eds. Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics. 22nd ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier;2025:chap 28.

Swartz MH. The nervous system. In: Swartz MH, ed. Swartz Textbook of Physical Diagnosis: History and Examination. 9th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2026:chap 21.

Review Date: 4/1/2025
Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Clinical Professor Emeritus, Department of Family Medicine, UW Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

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