Massaging the newborn has been a tradition in India and other Asian countries fromancient times. Various oil-based preparations have been used depending on the regional availability. There has been a recent surge in this ancient art particularly as a therapy among parents and professionals in the Western world. Evidence exists supporting the benefits of touch and massage therapy.

The aim of a study published in Indian Pediatrics was to investigate various techniques of providing massage, its benefits, possible mechanism of action and adverse effects.

This was a review of literature that found that massage has several positive effects in terms of weight gain, better sleep-wake pattern, enhanced neuromotor development, better emotional bonding, reduced rates of nosocomial infection, and hence, reduced mortality in the hospitalized patients. Many studies have described the technique and frequency of this procedure. Massage was found to be more useful when some kind of lubricant oil was used. However, harmful effects like physical injury and increased risk of infection were encountered when performed inappropriately.

Additionally, benefits of massage include – stimulation of circulatory and gastrointestinal systems, better weight gain, lesser stress behaviors, positive effects on neurological and neuromotor development and infant-parent bonding, and improved sleep. Massage with oil results in improved skin condition – increased hydration and surface lipid content,and barrier function, resulting in reduced loss of transepidermal water and improved thermoregulation;transcutaneous absorption of fatty acids contributing to improved nutrition; and better somatic growth.

Furthermore, massage therapy is considered a safe practice and there are no significant harmful effects, if performed appropriately. Although long term benefits of massage are not well established, this practice is traditional, culturally acceptable, cost effective, with minimal adverse effects.

Source: Indian Pediatrics. 2010 Sep;47(9):771-6.