Gentle movement therapy may help preterm babies at risk of cerebral palsy

NCT ID NCT07449312

Ongoing Disease control Sponsor: University of Zurich Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tests a new therapy for preterm babies born before 32 weeks who show abnormal general movements, a sign of possible developmental problems like cerebral palsy. The therapy involves gently guiding the baby's stiff or cramped movements into more normal, fluid patterns. Researchers will compare 40 babies receiving this therapy plus usual care with 40 babies receiving usual care alone, measuring motor skills at 3 months and 2 years of age.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Movement Imitation Therapy (manual guidance of movements)
What this could lead to: If it works, this therapy could help preterm babies at risk of cerebral palsy develop better motor skills and reduce long-term disability.
What could go wrong: This is a small pilot study with only 80 babies, so results may not apply to all preterm infants. The therapy requires active parent involvement, which may be challenging.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Premature Birth

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

EARLY INTERVENTION GENERAL MOVEMENTS PRETERM BIRTH

Contacts and locations

Locations

University Hospital Zurich

Zurich, Canton of Zurich, 8091, Switzerland

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