J Korean Acad Child Health Nurs.  2007 Jul;13(3):349-356.

The Effects of Meridian Massage on Both Growth and Sleep in Infants and Mothering Role Confidence and Sensitivity

• Cho KJ
• Lee MH
• Ji ES

Abstract

PURPOSE: This study was to done to develop a nursing intervention, Meridian massage and to investigate its effects on the infants' growth and sleep of infants and on role confidence and sensitivity in their mothers. METHOD: This study used a nonequivalent control group non-synchronized quasi experimental. Infants and mothers from Y health center were assigned to an experimental group (17) and control group (14). Meridian massage was given to infants by their mothers. Data were collected from August 11, 2005 to February 24, 2006. Infants in the experimental group had Meridian massage for 15 min per time, three times a week for 3 weeks. RESULT: Regarding growth, infants in the experimental group showed a statistical significant increase in weight and height compared to those in the control group. Sleeping well was also significant for infants in the experimental group compare to those in the control group. There was no signifiant difference in confidence in mothering role between the two groups. Sensitivity for the mothering role was significantly higher for mothers of infants in the experimental group compare to those in the control group.
CONCLUSION
Meridian massage is an effective nursing intervention in improving infant growth and maternal-infant interaction.

Keyword

Meridian massage; Growth; Sleep; Confidence; Sensitivity

MeSH Terms

Humans
Infant*
Massage*
Mothers*
Nursing
Child Health