Cerebral Palsy

may reduce spasticity
may encourage muscle flexibility
may increase or reduce muscle tone
may encourage motor function
may encourage more positive social interaction

ONSET OF CONTRACTURE
may help to soften tight soft tissues that restrict particular position/movement range of motion
may be increased following massage therapy

Menici V, Antonelli C, Beani E, Mattiola A, Giampietri M, Martini G, Rizzi R, Cecchi A, Cioni ML, Cioni G, Sgandurra G and Caretoy-R Consortium (2021) Feasibility of Early Intervention Through Home-Based and Parent-Delivered Infant Massage in Infants at High Risk for Cerebral Palsy. Front. Pediatr. 9:673956. doi: 10.3389/fped.2021.673956

Abstract:
The study investigates the feasibility, acceptability, and usability of early intervention (EI) through home-based, parent-delivered infant massage (IM) in infants at high risk for Cerebral Palsy (CP). The research involved 19 high-risk infants who received IM administered by their parents over an 8-week period. The intervention was designed to be intensive, with daily sessions of at least 20 minutes, performed at least five days a week. The results demonstrated high compliance and adherence from parents, with a majority following the recommended massage routines. Additionally, the study developed specific tools, including a daily diary and the Infant Massage Questionnaire Parent-Infant Experiences (IMQPE), to assess various aspects of the intervention. The findings indicate that IM is a feasible home-based EI program for infants at high risk for CP, supporting its potential to enhance early neurodevelopmental outcomes through a family-centered approach.