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Body, Movement, and Physical Activity: Opportunities for Child Evolution Through Affective and Therapeutic Touch

  • Gloria Curati
DOI
https://doi.org/10.3280/pnei2026oa23968
Submitted
ottobre 12, 2026
Published
2026-10-16

Abstract

This paper explores the fundamental role of affective and therapeutic touch and
movement in child neurobiological development through the paradigm of Psychoneuroendocrineimmunology
(PNEI). Physical contact is not merely a mechanical act but constitutes a preverbal
language and a primary biological modulator capable of activating C‐tactile fibers and
stimulating the release of oxytocin. The latter acts as a core mediator in stress reduction, regulation
of the HPA axis, modulation of the anti‐inflammatory immune response, and the structuring
of predictive models of social cognition. By integrating the osteopathic, physiotherapeutic,
and psychological approach, touch and its subsequent evolution into structured movement – an
essential driver for BDNF production and brain plasticity – offer a multidisciplinary care model.
This approach promotes interpersonal synchronization and caregiver empowerment, establishing
itself as a highly effective preventive and evolutionary medicine strategy for long‐term health.

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