Review and Critical Analysis of Massage Studies for Term and Preterm Infants

Purpose: To review and analyze studies evaluating the effects of massage on term and preterm infants. Design: A systematic review of literature. Results: Benefits of massage for term infants are: improved weight gain, growth, and sleep and decreased hyperbilirubinemia. Benefits for preterm infants are: improved weight gain, decreased response to pain, and increased interactions with parents. However, the few studies use different interventions related to timing and number of massages, and the outcomes vary among studies. There is not enough evidence to support the use of massage for term and preterm infants, but massage may be considered on a case-by-case basis.