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

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.