The Healing Touch: How Infant Massage Helps Babies Thrive

Just like adults, babies can also experience muscle tension and discomfort that affect their daily movements. Whether due to birth positioning, growth patterns, or developmental challenges, these issues can create stress for both the baby and the parents.

Licensed Massage Therapist Mikki Williams shares, “You have to have the baby coo and make eye contact at the same time before they’re ready to receive a massage. You have to have those signs.” This gentle approach ensures that infants feel comfortable and receptive to treatment, making the experience both effective and enjoyable.

Real Stories: How Infant Massage Changed Lives

Case #1: A Baby Girl’s Neck Tension and Mobility Issues

A particularly memorable case involved a seven-month-old baby girl. She had a lot of muscle tightness in her neck and shoulders. While she could barely move her head to the left, she could easily turn her head to the right. This was understandably upsetting to Mom, as her infant couldn’t nurse on both sides.

Mikki was able to identify the root of the problem—a trigger point restricting movement. Using delicate pressure (similar to what you’d apply to a closed eyelid), she worked on the area while keeping the baby engaged with toys and gentle interaction. After just three sessions, the infant’s range of motion improved dramatically, and she could finally turn her head freely. Today, she’s a happy, active toddler signed up for dance classes!

Case #2: Helping a Baby Boy Improve Range of Motion

This case involved a six-month-old baby boy who had tightness in his right trapezius muscle. As a result, it was difficult for him to move freely. His parents were already working with a physical therapist and osteopathic specialist, but they also sought Mikki’s help. She used techniques like hand-over-hand rapid Swedish strokes, which uses very little pressure but a lot of repetition and speed. She also used the active resistive range of motion (AROM) technique. The method involves myofascial release.

The result? In just two sessions, the infant could get his arm to do full range of motion. He was even able to shake a maraca that Mikki gave him to practice with!

The Power of Gentle, Skilled Touch

While many parents opt for infant massage to soothe their baby, it offers other benefits beyond relaxation. As Mikki explains, “If a baby is struggling with a lot of unnecessary stress to the point where you’re thinking, ‘Okay, this isn’t normal,’ chances are your baby might need a massage. And the worst-case scenario? Your baby gets a massage.”