Craniosacral therapy (CST) is a gentle, hands-on technique usually performed by a chiropractor or licensed massage therapist. The technique is thought to improve the fluid movement of the craniosacral system — the membranes and fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord as well as the attached bones, including the bones of the skull, face, mouth, and down the spine to the tailbone. Improving the fluid movement may enhance and complement the body’s natural healing mechanisms.
What Conditions Can Be Treated by Craniosacral Therapy?
Craniosacral therapy can benefit anyone who wants to achieve an optimal and balanced state, where the body’s systems are working in harmony with each other. Craniosacral therapy can enhance the body’s resistance to disease and is effective for a wide range of medical problems associated with pain and dysfunction, including:
- Migraine headaches
- Chronic neck and back pain
- Motor coordination impairments
- Colic
- Autism
- Central nervous system disorders
- Orthopedic problems
- Scoliosis
- Infantile disorders
- Learning disabilities
- Chronic fatigue
- Emotional difficulties
- Stress and tension-related problems
- Fibromyalgia and other connective tissue disorders
- Temporomandibular joint syndrome (TMJ)
- Neurovascular or immune disorders
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Post-surgical dysfunction
How Does Craniosacral Therapy Work?
Craniosacral therapy is said to improve fluid movement in the systems throughout the body. Improved fluid movement can enhance many body functions: the provision of nutrients to cell; the removal of toxins and waste products from tissues; the circulation of immune cells; the delivery of fresh blood to organs and tissues; and the movement of cerebro-spinal fluid.
How Does Craniosacral Therapy Feel?
The patient lies fully clothed on a padded table. The therapist begins by placing his/her hands on the body. The cranium (skull) and the sacrum (tailbone) are typically where most of the touch occurs. Other body parts may be gently contacted.
During a session, the central nervous system calms down and a deep sense of relaxation occurs. As the mind becomes more still, the patient can often sense movements of energy or releases in specific areas of the body. Each session is further individualized according to patient response.
How Many Treatments Will I Need?
Your therapist will assess this and let you know at the time of your treatment.
Our patient coordinator is standing by, happy to answer any questions you have to determine if Alliance Integrative Medicine (AIM) is right for you.
