Daily oil massage makes a baby's bones stronger.

VerdictMisleading

Checked against nih.gov

Daily oil massage alone has not been shown to make a baby's bones stronger. For babies born early, gentle massage with movement and good feeding may help bone formation, but oil by itself is not the proven part.

What experts say

In babies born early, gentle massage with movement and good feeding may help bone formation.1 2
This is known only for babies born early; there is no proof that it works the same way for every baby.1 2
The help seen came from massage with movement and good nutrition, not from oil by itself.1 2
Bone strength depends on good feeding, especially for a baby born early.1

Why people believe it

Oil massage is a common family habit and feels soothing. It is easy to think that something done daily with love also makes the bones stronger.

What to do

For a baby born early, ask the doctor or health worker about gentle massage and movement as part of care.1 2
Good feeding is important for bone growth; follow the feeding plan the doctor gives.1