The role of structured exercise and loving touch stimulation (SETS) with length for age z-score (LAZ) and Osteocalcin (OCN) levels among stunting children

Objectives: This study investigated the effects of structured training and loving touch stimulation (SETS) on improving L.A.Z. and OCN levels among stunting children aged six to eleven months old. Methods: This research uses a Pre-Experimental Design with a One-Group Pretest-Posttest Design Model. Stunting children aged 6 to 11 months, with good nutritional status and no history of chronic illness, were assigned randomly to SETS treatment (n=40) and Control group (n=40). The treatment group was given a routine care for stunting children program and SETS treatment. The control group received the same care without SETS treatment. LAZ and OCN levels were measured and collected at baseline and the end of week twelve. The data were analyzed using bivariate and multivariate analysis with linear regression to analyze independent variables and interference factors. Results: Subject characteristics, energy intake, history of infectious diseases, etc., were similar between intervention and control groups. Subjects treated with SETS provided higher LAZ and OCN than control subjects at approximately 1.45 and 11.5 ng/mL, respectively. SETS has a positive relationship with LAZ (r = 0.865, P < 0.05) and OCN (r = 0.540, P < 0.05). As a result of having higher levels of OCN of 18,25 ng/ml, which increases LAZ by 1,91, stunting children can benefit from SETS intervention. The SETS intervention in the treatment and control groups resulted in a 0.865-fold increase in the LAZ. Conclusion: OCN levels and fat intake positively correlate with the length for age z score increase (p