Massage stimulates growth in preterm infants: A replication

Replicated a study by F. A. Scafidi et al (see record 1986-24150-001). 40 preterm infants were assigned to treatment and control groups. 20 treatment infants received tactile/kinesthetic stimulation for 3 15-min periods during 3 consecutive hrs/day for a 10-day period. Sleep/wake behavior was monitored and Brazelton Neonatal Assessment Scale (NAS) assessments were performed at the beginning and the end of the treatment period. The treated Ss averaged a 21% greater weight gain per day and were discharged 5 days earlier. There were no significant differences in sleep/wake states and activity level between the groups. Treated Ss' performance was superior on the habituation cluster items of the NAS.