Baby massage by itself does not harm the baby and is in fact useful and helpful in improving growth, weight of the baby and maintaining temperature of the baby.

Occasional side effects can occur if the oil used for massage is contaminated which can lead to skin rash. If massage is done too vigorously and with lot of pressure, it can cause injury and trauma to the baby. Sick babies and babies with a heart problem should not be given massage as safety of massage in them is not known.

Massage therapy is thus, a safe practice and there are no significant harmful effects, if performed properly.