Massage therapy as an adjunct to phototherapy in neonatal jaundice: results from a randomized clinical trial

Abstract Background Neonatal jaundice is a common condition that impacts a considerable percentage of neonates, and it is usually managed by phototherapy. Massage, a traditional practice employed in various cultures, may enhance the excretion of bilirubin and reduce bilirubin levels. This research aims to clarify whether massage can accelerate bilirubin reduction and reduce hospitalization length in neonates with jaundice. Methods This randomized clinical trial examined the massage therapy effects on total serum bilirubin (TSB) levels, weight, temperature, and hospitalization duration in 50 healthy-term neonates undergoing phototherapy for jaundice at Bahrami Hospital in Tehran, in 2023. Demographic data of neonates such as age, sex, weight, and type of delivery were collected. Participants were randomly assigned to an intervention group receiving both phototherapy and 15-minute massages twice daily for three days, or a control group receiving only phototherapy. The massage followed guidelines from the International Association of Infant Massage and included gentle techniques. SPSS version 23 software was used to perform statistical analysis. Results The massage significantly reduced TSB levels on the first (14.15 ± 2.47 mg/dL vs. 16.23 ± 2.55 mg/dL, Cohen’s = − 0.828 [− 1.421, − 0.236], p -Value = 0.005), the second (10.26 ± 1.88 mg/dL vs. 13.30 ± 2.77 mg/dL, Cohen’s = − 1.284 [− 1.909, − 0.660], p -Value < 0.001), and third days (6.87 ± 1.33 mg/dL vs. 10 ± 2.32 mg/dL, Cohen’s = − 1.655 [− 2.314, − 0.996], p -Value < 0.001). Additionally, the massage group had a shorter hospitalization length (3.64 ± 0.56 days vs. 4.40 ± 0.70 days, Cohen’s = − 1.199 [− 1.817, − 0.581], p -Value < 0.001). Conclusion Massage therapy appears to be a practical and effective complementary intervention for full-term neonates with jaundice undergoing phototherapy. It may help reduce hospital stays and support faster recovery. Further research is recommended to evaluate long-term effects and compare different massage techniques to optimize their clinical use.