Effect of Massage on Physiological and Behavioral Parameters among Low Birth Weight Babies

Low birth weight babies admitted in NICU are usually exposed to stressful environment and are deprived of tactile stimulation. Massage seems to help in reducing stress and promote physiological and behavioral development. Aim: To determine whether massage helps in improving weight gain and behavioral development among low birth weight babies admitted in NICU. Methods: Quasi experimental pre-test post test control group design. Neonates with birth weight 1200 -1500gms. stable without any complication. Total 150 eligible babies were assigned alternately to experimental or control group. Massage was given with sesame oil daily for 15 days by investigator continued by care taker or mother. Physiological parameters like Weight, oxygen saturation, Heart rate, temperature, skin color were recorded daily before and after massage for 15 days and again on 21st day. Behavior was assessed by using Brazelton’s Neurobehavioral scale on 1st and 14th day. Results: Significant difference in weight gain was observed among experimental and control group on 14th and 21st day of the study. Massage has not shown any change in physiological parameters. In relation to behavior massage had made the babies more interactive ,less irritable, better adaptable to noxious stimuli and maintain autonomic stability. Mothers of experimental group babies appreciated the need and beneficial effects of massage and took active part in administration. Conclusion: Oil massage has potential to enhance weight gain and neurobehavioral development of low birth weight babies.