Craniosacral Therapy: More Than a Head Massage

Craniosacral 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.

The 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.

This article discusses the benefits of craniosacral therapy, techniques, and where to get it.

Craniosacral Therapy: Benefits and Massage Goals

Craniosacral therapy is thought to relieve tension within the body that contributes to various health disorders or is associated with the treatments of other conditions, such as cancer.

There are several conditions and ailments that are said to benefit from craniosacral therapy, including:

• Chronic pain conditions
• Infantile colic
• Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
• Asthma
• Headaches
• Migraines
• Dizziness
• Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
• Gastrointestinal disorders
• Stress-related mood disorders
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Therapy to relieve cancer treatment side effects

Body Parts Massaged

The areas of focus during craniosacral 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.

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 perceiving danger.

The symptoms a person goes in for will determine in what areas of the body craniosacral therapy will be given. For example, if a person has headaches, they will likely be given a head or neck massage. Other areas involved in craniosacral therapy include:

• Your back
• Around the spinal column
• Other areas that have symptoms, such as joints or muscles

Pressure and Sensation 

The pressure applied during craniosacral therapy is incredibly light. It is not the same as a deep tissue massage. Light pressure is applied over the affected fascial tissue to help modify certain body rhythms that could be playing a role in pain and other symptoms.

Craniosacral Therapy Unknowns

Craniosacral therapy has been around for decades, but there are still some unknowns because of a lack of clinical research. Some studies suggest that it works, while others cannot find a scientific basis for it. Due to a lack of evidence, it's uncertain if the treatment really works. In some circles, craniosacral therapy is referred to as pseudoscience for its lack of clinical evidence. It’s thought that the gentle pressure applied is not enough to make any real difference.  

Craniosacral Massage Therapy Techniques

The massage techniques used in craniosacral therapy rely on low pressure in the right places. It's intended to be as gentle as possible.

The fingertips are often used during this type of massage to avoid applying too much pressure. The areas massaged are between the skull and the bottom of the spine. Healthcare providers work these spots to identify imbalances within the body and its cerebrospinal fluid.

If there is an imbalance in cerebrospinal fluid, the massage therapist will likely reposition you or press on the area to help release flow. The techniques aim to improve the body’s ability to regulate physiological responses.

During and after the session, people may experience different sensations, including:

• Feeling so relaxed you fall asleep
• Feeling as though you’ve entered a meditative state
• Feeling as though you’re dreaming even when wide awake
• Recalling different memories while being massaged
• Feeling a sense of warmth and softness or as if you’re floating
• Feeling relaxed and energized simultaneously
• Deeper breathing
• Feeling as though you are standing taller and straighter

Giving Yourself a Craniosacral Massage At Home

While people can give themselves massages at home that are similar to craniosacral therapy, it is not advised because experts trained in the practice will be able to perform the procedure correctly. Manipulating your nervous system at home using this technique should be avoided.

Where to Get Craniosacral Therapy

Craniosacral therapy is typically offered by several healthcare providers, including:

• Chiropractors
• Osteopaths
• Physical therapists or occupational therapists
• A massage therapist licensed explicitly in craniosacral therapy

These professionals know how to perform the massage technique correctly, and if you wish to try it, you should seek out clinicians in your area who specialize in craniosacral therapy.

Summary

Craniosacral therapy is not new, but it has been gaining attention recently because of anecdotal evidence that it can help many ailments. While some clinical research speaks to its efficacy, studies are limited, and more information is required before craniosacral therapy becomes a more mainstream treatment option.

Since craniosacral therapy is relatively safe for most people, there is no harm in trying out the therapy technique if you and a healthcare provider believe it may be right for you. Visit a licensed professional who has experience with this route of treatment.