Introduction: Low birth weight (LBW) neonates are at increased risk of growth restriction, feeding difficulties, and neurodevelopmental delay. Developmental supportive care interventions, such as neonatal massage, have been explored as adjunctive strategies to improve short- and long-term outcomes in this vulnerable population.

Methodology: A narrative review was conducted using electronic databases including PubMed, MEDLINE, CINAHL, Scopus, and the Cochrane Library. Studies published between January 2015 and March 2025 were screened. Randomized controlled trials, quasi-experimental studies, and systematic reviews evaluating neonatal massage in LBW or preterm neonates were included. Outcomes of interest were weight gain, growth parameters, neurodevelopment, feeding tolerance, sleep behavior, length of hospital stay, and safety.

Results: Evidence from randomized trials and systematic reviews indicates that neonatal massage is associated with improved daily weight gain and enhanced feeding tolerance in LBW neonates. Moderate-pressure massage appears to be more effective than light-pressure stimulation. Emerging evidence also suggests potential benefits for neurobehavioral organization and sleep regulation. No significant adverse effects were reported across studies when massage was administered by trained caregivers.