This pre-registered systematic review and multilevel meta-analysis (n = 12,966 individuals from 212 studies) investigated the effects of touch interventions on physical and mental health, identifying moderators of efficacy. Touch interventions effectively regulated cortisol levels and increased weight in newborns, and reduced pain, depression, and anxiety in adults. Object/robot touch yielded similar physical but lower mental health benefits than human touch. Clinical cohorts benefited more from touch than healthy individuals. Parental touch was more beneficial for newborns than healthcare professional touch. Small study bias and blinding limitations were noted. Understanding these factors can maximize future interventions.

Julian Packheiser, Helena Hartmann, Kelly Fredriksen, Valeria Gazzola, Christian Keysers, Frédéric Michon