Randomized controlled trial of three interventions in the management of persistent crying of infancy.

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of three methods in the management of infantile colic.

METHODS

Healthy infants with persistent crying were randomly assigned to one of three groups for a 2-week period. All groups received an assessment and reassurance from a pediatrician and support from a public health nurse. Group 1 also received counseling regarding specific management techniques. Group 2 also received a car-ride simulation device. Group 3 acted as a control. Mothers completed crying diaries and preintervention and postintervention anxiety questionnaires.

RESULTS

Thirty-eight mother-infant pairs were enrolled. Combining all three groups, there was a 24% reduction in daily hours of crying (P = .01) and a 18% improvement in maternal anxiety (P < .001), but no significant difference among groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The natural history of persistent crying of infancy is improvement over time. These specific interventions proved no better than reassurance and support alone in decreasing daily hours of crying and maternal anxiety.