Craniosacral Therapy

Cranialsacral Therapy (CST) is a gentle, hands-on treatment aimed at improving the functioning of the central nervous system by targeting the craniosacral system - an intricate network that includes the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord. It is considered a holistic, complementary approach to health and well-being that seeks to harmonize the body's internal systems and promote self-healing.

Cranialsacral therapy (CST) is a gentle touch therapy that promotes the body's natural healing capacities.

Harmonizes with the body's natural hydraulic forces and motions.
It is a hands-on technique that supports and boosts the body's inherent natural healing capacities.
This gradual release of chronic tensions inside the body can significantly improve both physical and mental well-being.

Cranialsacral therapy is a form of gentle massage designed to release tension in the fascia, a connective tissue network in the body. The treatment works by improving cerebrospinal fluid circulation and manipulating body rhythms within the nervous system.

Cranialsacral therapy is thought to relieve tension within the body that contributes to various health disorders or is associated with the treatments of other conditions.

Understanding the craniosacral system is key to understanding CST. The craniosacral system consists of the membranes that enclose the brain and spinal cord, the bones of the skull and spine, and the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) that circulates between them. The cerebrospinal fluid acts as a cushion for the brain and spinal cord, protecting them from injury and helping to maintain balance in the nervous system. This fluid also plays a crucial role in removing metabolic waste and distributing nutrients. Any disruption in the cranial-sacral system - whether from injury, stress, or chronic conditions - can impair the movement of CSF and lead to physical and emotional symptoms.

Cranialsacral therapy aims to alleviate the symptoms of various health ailments and conditions, such as headaches, neck pain, and complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), by relieving compression on the bones in the lower back, head, and spinal column. Typically, people undergoing this type of therapy can expect pain relief, lowered stress, and improved overall well-being.

The areas of focus during cranialsacral therapy are those along the fascia, which is the connective tissue that runs through the body. It contains organs, blood vessels, bones, nerve fibers, and muscles in place to function as they should.

Myofascial trigger points are defined as “hyperirritable” nodules of muscle that can cause chronic pain, a decreased range of motion, referred pain, and autonomic dysfunction. Doctors classify trigger points as either active or latent. With active trigger points, a person does not have to touch the trigger point itself for it to be painful. Latent trigger points are usually asymptomatic but become painful when touched. Muscle knots can develop almost anywhere on the body where muscle or fascia is present.

Muscle knots feel like small, tender lumps or nodules. They are palpable and can be felt when touched. However, knots can be discreet and exist deep in the muscle, and a person may have to press hard into the connective tissue to feel the knots or trigger points.

Muscle knots are small, bump-like areas of muscle that can be painful. Treatment often includes home remedies, like applying warm or cold pads. Myofascial trigger points can cause chronic pain and affect a person’s range of motion. This can have a large impact on quality of life, mood, physical ability, and health.

Common causes of muscle knots include:

Stress and tension
Physical trauma
Muscle injury
Emotional stress
Poor posture
Prolonged bed rest or sitting without stretching

A cranialsacral massage is similar to massage therapy; however, in this massage, you stay fully clothed. The session begins once the consultation is done by a physical therapist. In addition to this massage, soft and light music may increase the state of relaxation. The therapist uses light pressure to assess the restrictions in the fascia. Fascial release may help relax the muscles and organs and relieve stress which improves function. Some may feel a deep sense of relaxation.

Different sensations that are felt during cranialsacral therapy include:

Deep relaxation
Falling asleep and recalling memories later
Sensing pulsations
Numbness
A hot or cold sensation

A person who spends a significant amount of time sitting at work may develop muscle knots due to staying in the same position for prolonged periods.

Applying sustained pressure to muscle knots leads to an increase in blood flow, which in turn causes the release of muscle fiber tension. This is called myofascial release.

By working this tissue through gentle-pressure massage, practitioners can help to calm the fight-or-flight response by stopping the sympathetic nervous system from erroneously perceiving danger.

How Cranialsacral Therapy Can Help You

The primary benefit of cranialsacral therapy lies in its ability to promote self-healing by addressing physical, mental, and emotional stress.

Chronic Pain Relief: Cranialsacral therapy has been found to help with chronic pain conditions, particularly those linked to musculoskeletal tension. By releasing tension in the fascia and improving the flow of cerebrospinal fluid, cranialsacral therapy can reduce pain and restore mobility. People with fibromyalgia, back pain, and neck pain often find cranialsacral therapy beneficial.
Headaches and Migraines: Many people who suffer from frequent headaches or migraines seek out cranialsacral therapy. The treatment can relieve pressure on the skull and improve the circulation of cerebrospinal fluid, which in turn may reduce headache frequency and intensity.
Stress Reduction and Relaxation: Cranialsacral therapy's gentle approach encourages the body to relax, activating the parasympathetic nervous system (the body's “rest and digest” mode). This can be particularly helpful for individuals dealing with chronic stress, anxiety, or depression. By helping the body to relax and release built-up tension, cranialsacral therapy promotes an overall sense of well-being.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Cranialsacral therapy may be helpful for individuals dealing with PTSD or other forms of emotional trauma. The gentle touch can help release emotional tension stored in the body, leading to emotional as well as physical healing.
Improved Sleep: Many individuals who struggle with insomnia or other sleep disorders have reported improvements in sleep quality after cranialsacral therapy sessions. By calming the nervous system and releasing physical tension, cranialsacral therapy can promote more restful and restorative sleep.