What is Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS)?
Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome (NAS) occurs when a baby is exposed to drugs in the womb before birth, typically opioids. After birth, these infants go through withdrawal, which can cause a variety of symptoms, including irritability, difficulty feeding, tremors, and seizures. Many babies with NAS also experience neurological disorganization, making it difficult for them to self-regulate and interact with their environment.
Babies born with NAS often experience:
- Tremors and muscle tightness
- Feeding difficulties
- Excessive crying and irritability
- Poor weight gain
- Sleep disturbances
- Neurological disorganization, making it hard for the baby to process stimuli, calm down, and bond effectively with caregivers.
How Infant Massage and Touch Therapy Can Help
Touch therapy, including infant massage, offers a gentle and effective way to support babies with NAS. Massage can help soothe symptoms, regulate neurological responses, and improve overall development. Here’s how:
Calms the Nervous System: Infant massage has been shown to help calm the nervous system, reducing irritability and tremors. For babies with NAS, this can provide relief from the heightened sensitivity they often experience.
Promotes Bonding: Babies with NAS may struggle with bonding due to the neurological disorganization and stress their bodies are undergoing. Massage allows parents or caregivers to connect with their baby in a nurturing way, fostering emotional attachment and trust.
Supports Weight Gain and Feeding: Many babies with NAS have feeding challenges, which can impact their weight gain. Massage has been shown to improve digestion and reduce gastrointestinal discomfort, helping babies feed more effectively and gain weight.
Improves Sleep: Massage helps release endorphins, encouraging restful sleep, which is often difficult for babies with NAS. Calmer, more relaxed babies are able to sleep longer, which aids in their overall recovery and development.
Eases Muscle Tension and Tremors: Babies with NAS often have tight muscles or tremors due to their withdrawal symptoms. Gentle massage can relax these muscles, helping the baby feel more at ease.
Infant massage is a powerful tool for supporting the well-being of babies with NAS. By calming the nervous system, promoting bonding, and supporting developmental milestones, massage therapy can help ease the difficult transition these infants face. Liddle Kidz® Foundation’s Advanced Infant Massage certification ensures that caregivers and healthcare providers are equipped with the knowledge and skills to apply this gentle, effective therapy safely and confidently.
By offering infants a calm, nurturing touch, families and caregivers can help their little ones thrive and begin their journey to recovery with love and care.