Infant massage

Infant Massage

Infant massage (pronunciation: /ˈɪnfənt ˈmæsɑːʒ/) is a type of complementary and alternative treatment that uses massage therapy for human infants. This therapy has been practiced globally, and has been increasingly used in Western countries as a treatment for infants, though the scientific evidence supporting its use is limited.

Etymology

The term "infant massage" is a compound word, derived from the Latin word "infans", meaning "unable to speak" and the French word "massage", meaning "friction of kneading".

History

Infant massage has been a longstanding tradition in many cultures, including Indian and African cultures. It was introduced to the Western world in the 1970s and has since gained popularity as a method to promote infant health, improve parental bonding, and reduce stress in infants.

Techniques

Infant massage involves a variety of techniques, including Swedish massage, reflexology, and yoga. These techniques are typically performed by a parent or caregiver, but can also be performed by a trained professional. The massage is usually performed with the infant lying on their back, and involves gentle, rhythmic stroking of the infant's body with the hands.

Benefits

Research suggests that infant massage may have several potential benefits, including improved weight gain, improved sleep patterns, and reduced crying. It may also promote bonding between the parent and infant, and may help to reduce stress in both the infant and the parent.

Risks

While infant massage is generally considered safe, it should be performed with care. The infant's body is delicate, and too much pressure can cause injury. It is also important to avoid massaging the infant immediately after feeding, as this can cause discomfort and potentially lead to vomiting.

Related Terms

• Massage
• Swedish massage
• Reflexology
• Yoga
• Complementary and alternative medicine

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Infant massage
• Wikipedia's article - Infant massage

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