Women and Children's Services
NICU Massage
Touch is one of the first forms of communication babies develop.
It is recognized as one of the most basic of human needs and
as a healing medicine. Touch is not only healing for your
baby but also for you, the parent. Your baby needs your touch.
By touching and massaging your baby, the bonding process begins.
Massage creates an expression of caring, providing a positive
experience. Your touch may even improve growth and development
while promoting rest. Our specially trained NICU nurses understand
the needs of babies and families. They understand the importance
of enhancing and supporting infant/parent healing. When you
are unavailable they can provide touch and massage for your
baby. The massage techniques used here are from the University
of Miami Touch Research Institute directed and founded by
Dr. Tiffany Fields. The NICU nurses will be happy to assist
you in learning massage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When can you begin massage?
Once your baby is medically stable, you can begin touch relaxation
or simple massage.
What is touch relaxation?
Touch relaxation is simply placing your hand on the baby.
This allows your baby to become familiar with your touch.
As an example, hold an arm or leg while talking softly to
help your baby relax.
What is simple massage?
Simple massage is a series of firm, but gentle strokes usually
done 3 times a day for 15 minutes.
Benefits
How do parents benefit from massage?
- Offers a quiet time with your baby
- Allows for a more positive role in a stressful situation
- Increases confidence and skill in handling your baby
- Offers a direct way of communicating and helps you learn
your baby's personality
- Provides a way to love your baby
How does the baby benefit from massage?
- Rests more deeply and longer, allowing time for neurological
and physical growth and development
- Improves sensory awareness
- May help to increase oxygen and nutrient flow
- May improve digestion and weight gain
Research on infant massage has shown very tangible results.
These techniques are simple and can easily be part of your
daily infant care routine.
Contact The NICU
If you are interested in learning more about infant massage,
please call at 616-752-8967 or email our massage therapist
at cosmosb@trinity-health.org.
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