What is Craniosacral Therapy?

Craniosacral therapy is a massage technique that focuses on movement of the cerebral spinal fluid (CSF). CSF is the fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord. CSF helps provide the brain with nutrients for proper function and also transports waste away from the nervous system.

This technique is a gentle, hands on approach. There are various "holds" with the hands placed lightly on the head, neck, and spine. 

The practitioner does not force movement within the system, as with deep tissue massage or a spinal adjustment. The patient's body guides the treatment with the goal to optimize flow of the CSF for increased nutrient intake by the brain and removal of waste.

Craniosacral therapy is also helpful for balancing the nervous system. Many people find the session relaxing with stimulation of the parasympathetic nervous system. The parasympathetic nervous system is responsible for giving us an inner sense of calm and is commonly referred to as the time to rest and digest, compared to the fight or flight response of the sympathetic nervous system. 

Treatments are typically 30-60 minutes with a portion of the visit focused on the head and neck and another portion focused on the back and spine. Some patients report feeling a lot of sensation during the treatment, and others report not noticing much at all. Both are normal and does not mean the therapy is any more or less effective.

What Conditions is it Effective For?