Clinics in Mother and Child Health

Impact of Touch and Massage on Medically Fragile Infants to Improve Development and Wellbeing

Shi-Wen Xiong^* Department of Neonatal Medicine, Hunan Children's Hospital, Changsha, China
^*Correspondence: Shi-Wen Xiong, Department of Neonatal Medicine, Hunan Children's Hospital, Changsha, China, Email:

Received: 27-Oct-2023, Manuscript No. CMCH-23-21726; Editor assigned: 30-Oct-2023, Pre QC No. CMCH-23-21726 (PQ); Reviewed: 13-Nov-2023, QC No. CMCH-23-21726; Revised: 20-Nov-2023, Manuscript No. CMCH-23-21726 (R); Published: 27-Nov-2023, DOI: 10.35248/2090-7214.23.S20.002

Description

A baby’s skin is their largest organ, and it is an incredibly sensitive one. It is the first sense to develop in utero and the first to be used to interact with the world outside. Research has come to reveal that touch has a profound impact on an infant’s physical and emotional development, especially for infants with medical fragility.

Touch and massage are two simple yet powerful forms of non- verbal communication that can have a profound impact on medically fragile infants. Touch and massage can provide comfort, connection, and healing, and can be used to help manage pain, reduce stress, and improve health and development. Touch and massage are often used in combination with other therapies, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy, to maximize the benefits for infants.

Medical fragility is a term used to describe infants who have a greater risk of adverse health outcomes due to medical conditions or other risk factors. These infants often have complex medical needs and require special care. They are often born prematurely or suffer from birth defects or chronic health issues, such as congenital heart defects, genetic syndromes, or neurological disorders.

Benefits of touch and massage for medically fragile infants

Touch and massage can be incredibly beneficial for medically fragile infants. A gentle touch can provide comfort, reduce stress, and help an infant to relax. Massage can also be used to help increase an infant’s range of motion, improve their circulation, and reduce pain. Studies have even found that massage can help medically fragile infants to gain weight, sleep better, and be more alert and responsive. It can also help to reduce pain associated with medical procedures, such as injections, as well as from medical conditions, such as reflux.

Physical benefits: The physical benefits of touch and massage for medically fragile infants are many. It can help to reduce pain and discomfort, improve circulation, and increase range of motion. It can also help to improve digestion, reduce stress hormones, and boost the immune system.

Emotional benefits: Touch and massage can also have emotional benefits for medically fragile infants. It can help to reduce anxiety, promote relaxation, and provide comfort. It can also help to build a bond between the infant and caregiver and can increase feelings of calm and security.

Development benefits: Touch and massage can also have a positive impact on an infant’s development. It can help to stimulate their senses and improve their motor skills. It can also help to improve their social and emotional development by helping them to form attachments with caregivers and build self- confidence.

Tips to provide touch and massage for medically fragile infants

Touch and massage can be provided in a variety of ways. It is important to remember that each baby is unique and that the type of touch and massage, the pressure used, and the duration of the massage should be tailored to the individual baby. Here are some tips for providing touch and massage to medically fragile infants: Make sure the room is warm and comfortable. Use some light oil or lotion to help reduce friction.

Avoid massaging areas with open sores or wounds; Take breaks when needed and always end with a gentle touch; Start slowly. Start with a gentle touch and build up to a more vigorous massage. Use the right pressure; Be aware of the infant’s reactions and adjust your pressure accordingly; Use lighter pressure on the face and neck, and firmer pressure on the legs and arms; Be consistent by providing touch and massage on a regular basis, such as once a day or several times a week; Be mindful to pay attention to the baby's cues and be sensitive to his or her needs; If the baby seems uncomfortable, stop the massage and try a different technique; Be creative and try different massage techniques, such as stroking, kneading, and tapping, and use different oils and lotions; Be patient as it may take time for the baby to adjust to touch and massage.

Conclusion

Touch and massage can be a powerful tool in helping to heal and nurture medically fragile infants. It provides comfort and connection, as well as numerous physical and emotional benefits. It is important to remember that each baby is unique and that the type of touch and massage, the pressure used, and the duration of the massage should be tailored to the individual baby. When done correctly, massage can be incredibly beneficial for medically fragile infants and can help to promote their overall health and wellbeing.