Effect of a Novel Postural Support Device Versus Conventional Swaddling on Postural Development in Preterm Neonates...

Area of Science:

• Neonatal development
• Physiotherapy
• Biomechanical engineering

Background:

• Preterm neonates face risks of developmental delays and postural issues in the NICU.
• Therapeutic positioning is vital for supporting musculoskeletal and neuromotor development in infants.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess a novel postural support device's impact on preterm infant posture.
• To evaluate the device's effectiveness when used with physiotherapy in the NICU.

Main Methods:

• A quasi-experimental trial involved 146 preterm neonates (73 intervention, 73 control).
• The intervention group used a new device; controls received conventional swaddling.
• The Infant Positioning Assessment Tool (IPAT) assessed postural alignment weekly.

Main Results:

• The intervention group showed significantly better scores for shoulders, hips/pelvis, and lower extremities.
• Overall posture and head/neck/hand positioning improved in the intervention group.
• Early correction of postural deficits was observed in infants using the new device.

Conclusions:

• The novel device, with physiotherapy, significantly improved postural symmetry and flexion in preterm infants.
• Developmentally supportive positioning is key for optimizing neuromotor outcomes in the NICU.
• This approach offers a promising alternative to conventional swaddling for preterm infants.