What It Is

Craniosacral therapy involves the application of light touch — typically no more than 5 grams of pressure — to the skull, sacrum, and related structures to detect and release restrictions in the craniosacral system. Practitioners assess the rhythmic motion of cerebrospinal fluid and use subtle techniques to release fascial and osseous restrictions that interfere with optimal nervous system function.

A Bit of History

Craniosacral therapy was developed by osteopathic physician John Upledger in the 1970s, building on the earlier cranial osteopathy work of William Sutherland. It has been refined through decades of clinical practice and research, with particular application in trauma recovery, pediatric care, and neurological conditions.

How It Can Help You

The gentleness of craniosacral therapy makes it appropriate for patients who cannot tolerate more vigorous manual therapies — including infants, the elderly, post-surgical patients, and individuals with acute neurological conditions. Headaches and migraines often respond to craniosacral treatment through release of the dural tension and cranial bone restrictions that contribute to vascular and neurological headache mechanisms. Trauma recovery — both physical and psychological — benefits from craniosacral therapy through its capacity to address the nervous system dysregulation that persists long after tissue healing is complete. Stress relief is a consistent outcome of craniosacral sessions, which activate the parasympathetic nervous system and promote deep relaxation and nervous system regulation. TMJ disorders and facial pain respond to the intraoral and cranial techniques used to address temporal bone and mandibular restrictions. Pediatric conditions including colic, birth trauma, and developmental concerns are among the most common applications for craniosacral work. We integrate craniosacral therapy into comprehensive treatment plans where its unique approach addresses dimensions of health that other modalities do not reach. Make an appointment today.