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Published on: January 7, 2020
Early Physiotherapy Intervention Program for Preterm Infants and Parents: A Randomized, Single-Blind Clinical Trial
Mirari Ochandorena-Acha1,2, Marc Terradas-Monllor1,3, Laura López Sala2
1Research Group on Methodology, Methods, Models and Outcomes of Health and Social Sciences (M3O), Faculty of Health Sciences and Welfare, Centre for Health and Social Care Research (CESS), University of Vic-Central University of Catalonia (UVIC-UCC), C.Sagrada Família, 7, 08500 Vic, Barcelona, Spain.
Early physiotherapy intervention did not significantly improve motor development in preterm infants. However, some developmental areas showed temporary benefits at one month corrected age.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal Development
- Developmental Pediatrics
- Rehabilitation Medicine
Background:
- Early developmental interventions aim to prevent issues in at-risk preterm infants.
- Evaluating physiotherapy's impact on preterm infant development and parental stress is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the effectiveness of an early physiotherapy intervention for preterm infants.
- To examine effects on motor and global development, and parental stress.
Main Methods:
- 48 preterm infants were randomized into intervention and control groups.
- Intervention included parental education, tactile/kinesthetic stimulation, and home activities.
- Intervention spanned from 32 weeks post-menstrual age to 2 months corrected age.
Main Results:
- No significant differences in Alberta Infant Motor Scale at 2 or 8 months corrected age.
- Intervention group showed better fine motor, problem-solving, personal-social, and communication skills at 1 month corrected age.
Conclusions:
- Early physiotherapy intervention showed no sustained effect on overall development.
- Limited impact may be due to intervention dose, intensity, or parental compliance issues.
