# Effectiveness of tactile and kinesthetic stimulation on weight and feeding patterns among Low birth weight neonates

## TL;DR

Tactile and kinesthetic stimulation helps low birth weight babies gain weight and improve feeding, offering a low-cost solution for neonatal care.

## Contribution

Demonstrates the effectiveness of tactile and kinesthetic stimulation in improving weight and feeding in low birth weight neonates.

## Key findings

- Experimental group showed significant weight gain from 1.55 ± 1.30 to 3.50 ± 0.50.
- Feeding patterns improved in the experimental group compared to the control group.
- Lower birth weight neonates responded better to stimulation.

## Abstract

Preterm birth and low birth weight significantly contribute to neonatal morbidity, with affected infants often struggling with weight
gain and feeding. This study investigated the effects of tactile and kinesthetic stimulation on these parameters in preterm and low
birth weight neonates in Mehsana hospitals. Sixty neonates were split into an experimental group, receiving 15-minute tactile and
kinesthetic sessions twice daily and a control group with standard care. Measurements on the first and seventh days showed that the
experimental group had notable improvements, with weight gain increasing from 1.55 ± 1.30 to 3.50 ± 0.50 and feeding
patterns similarly enhanced. In contrast, the control group's gains were modest and not statistically significant. Gestational age and
birth weight were associated with positive responses to stimulation, especially in neonates with lower initial weights. These results
indicate that tactile and kinesthetic stimulation could be an effective, low-cost method to support growth in vulnerable neonates.