Benefits

Infant Massage can be beneficial for both baby and parent.
Research studies and anecdotal information have shown many
positive benefits of infant massage —

not only for the babies, but also for their parents!

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When infant massage is used as a form of adjunctive healthcare, there are many potential benefits including:

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Skeletal:
- Aids in supporting good posture and balance
- Reduces muscle tension that could lead to potential medical problems
- Increases nutrient flow to bones

Muscular:
- Relieves muscle tension and spasm
- Aids in removal of lactic acid & carbonic acid which build up after strenuous activity
- Increases the flow of blood and nutrients to muscles
- Can increase or decrease muscle tone depending upon amount of pressure
- Can reduce or increase joint mobility depending upon amount of pressure

Digestive:
- May relieve constipation
- May relieve gas
- Reduces water retention cleans the blood by toning the kidneys

Circulatory:
- Stimulates blood and lymph circulation
- Helps strengthen the immune system
- Releases toxins held in the body

Respiratory:
- Improves breathing patterns
- Helps reduce respiratory problems
- Relieves tension in the chest allowing the lungs to expand more fully

Nervous:
- Relaxes and calms baby
- Helps baby to sleep
- Raises endorphin levels, promoting healing
- Provides a safe and easy release from frustration and hyperactive behavior
- The Vagus Nerve is stimulated influencing food absorption hormones (Insulin & Glycogen)

 

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Infant Massage is contraindicated if the child has:

• a high fever/temperature
• an acute infection, staph infection, illness or disease
• a skin disorder which may be contagious or cause inflammation

• has open sores or lesions
• had recent immunization/vaccination (wait 48 – 72 hours)
• any life threatening medical condition
• an unhealed umbilical cord (tummy massage contraindicated)
• has swollen lymph nodes
• blood clots or a blood condition
• diarrhea or other sickness

 

 

Common Precautions for Infant Massage include:

Apnea
Bradycardia/Tachycardia
Abdominal Distention
Gastrointestinal or Jejunostomy feeding tubes
Hydrocephalus
Inflammations
Edema
Dysplasia
Hemophilia
Jaundice
Recent Surgery
HIV/AIDS
Tumors
Cancer
Seizure Disorders

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Massage therapy for an infant is not intended to replace other forms of healthcare. The information provided herein does not replace medical advice. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact your child's healthcare provider.