Craniosacral Therapy

Craniosacral therapy is a form of gentle, light-touch therapy which claims to manipulate the skull joints, and/or the joints of the spine and pelvis. This is described by those who practice the therapy as a means of affecting the pressure and circulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). There is controversy around its use and the described benefits, partly as the idea of manipulation to influence CSF fluid circulation has not been proven in animal studies and research has shown that it is breathing which may cause CSF to circulate.

There have not been studies looking at the benefit of craniosacral therapy for people with cerebral palsy. Those who practice craniosacral therapy advise that it can help those with cerebral palsy through the relief of the damaging effects of cerebral palsy on the muscular and nervous systems of the body.

There are studies which have shown the benefit of craniosacral therapy for adults with asthma, fibromyalgia and multiple sclerosis. However, these studies have been criticized for their research methods and the results have not been considered to be reliable.

Many individuals describe experiencing stress reduction as a result of this form of therapy, however, and a study has shown that this therapy may inspire individuals to feel a change of attitude to their health and wellbeing.

The risk of harm from craniosacral therapy is low.  Practitioners advise against the use of the therapy where an individual has a bleed into the brain, or a swelling of a blood vessel in the brain and where an individual has a tendency to bleed more than usual.

Craniosacral therapy is unlikely to be covered by government health care plans but may be covered under RMT treatments as part of private insurance plans. Sessions cost around $140.  A course of treatment may be recommended.

To learn more about craniosacral therapy you may visit the website for the Cranial Therapy Centre