What is craniosacral therapy?
The human body is able to function as a result of numerous complex systems that are part of our make-up. The system relevant to craniosacral therapy is aptly named the 'craniosacral system ', and is composed primarily of membranes and cerebrospinal fluid, whose job it is to surround and cushion the brain and the spinal cord.
During a craniosacral therapy session, your therapist will use very light touch on specific areas of the body to tune into what practitioners describe as the craniosacral system and identify areas they perceive as restricted or tense. The practitioner may focus on areas including the spine, skull and fascia, using gentle touch to work with areas they perceive as restricted or tense.
Craniosacral therapy uses very light touch and may be offered to people of different ages. If you're pregnant, have an existing health condition, have recently had an injury or surgery, or are unsure whether the therapy is suitable for you, speak to an appropriate healthcare professional and let your practitioner know before treatment.
Some people choose craniosacral therapy for relaxation and to support their general sense of wellbeing. However, evidence for its effectiveness in treating specific health conditions is limited, and it should not be used as a substitute for appropriate medical advice or treatment.
What happens during craniosacral therapy?
Your initial consultation
Before treatment commences, you can expect to have an initial consultation. This is an opportunity for you and your therapist to discuss your medical history, day-to-day routine, diet, exercise and just generally what is happening in your life. The information you share can help your practitioner understand why you're seeking therapy and whether the session needs to be adapted for you.
As well as all of the above, they will also be keeping a close eye on your posture and how you move your body, possibly asking you to make movements so they can note what hurts, where and when. By doing this, they will be able to establish areas of sensitivity and identify what is going on.
What to wear for craniosacral therapy
For your session, it is recommended that you wear loose, comfortable clothing and always remain fully clothed. You will usually be required to lie on a massage table whilst your therapist stands or sits.
What to expect during a craniosacral therapy session
To begin, your therapist will make contact by lightly placing their hands on your body, allowing them to tune into what is happening by listening with their hands. They will check all parts of the craniosacral system, sensing the movement and rhythm of the cerebrospinal fluid in order to identify restrictions that could be causing dysfunction within the body.
Once your therapist has made their assessment, they will use gentle touch and light pressure to work with areas they perceive as restricted or tense. Craniosacral therapy involves very light pressure and is not usually intended to cause pain. However, if you experience any discomfort during a session, let your therapist know.
What does craniosacral therapy feel like?
Craniosacral therapy uses gentle touch and is generally considered non-invasive. Some people may find the experience relaxing, although how you feel during and after a session can vary. Certain movements might cause tingling or numbing sensations or very slight discomfort. These sensations are usually only momentary.
How might you feel after craniosacral therapy?
Reaction to treatment varies a great deal from person to person, but generally people find they leave the session feeling deeply relaxed and/or with increased energy. Reduced pain or improved function may happen shortly after a session, or within a few days.
Frequently asked questions about craniosacral therapy
How many craniosacral therapy sessions might I need?
There is no set number of sessions. Your practitioner can explain their approach and discuss this with you before you decide whether to continue.
How much does craniosacral therapy cost?
Cost usually varies from therapist to therapist, with certain geographical locations costing slightly more than others. Some therapists charge more for the first session, as it can sometimes last longer, and some therapists offer reduced rates for concessions or those on a low income.
Why do people try craniosacral therapy?
Craniosacral therapy is most commonly sought by individuals with acute or chronic conditions. Some people try craniosacral therapy to help with:
- headaches and migraines
- chronic pain
- stress.
Post-treatment, some patients report feeling a greater sense of relaxation in their everyday lives as well as an improved sense of overall wellbeing.
Some people choose craniosacral therapy because they find the gentle touch and treatment environment relaxing. However, research into its effectiveness for treating health conditions is limited, and current evidence has not established clear clinical benefits. Craniosacral therapy should not replace appropriate medical advice or treatment.
Craniosacral therapy and cranial osteopathy misconceptions
Craniosacral therapy and cranial osteopathy are the same
Though there is a large amount of overlap between the two professions, they are not the same. Cranial osteopathy is a specialist area of osteopathy that concentrates on the minute movements of the cranial bones. These bones in the head are surrounded by cerebrospinal fluid that protects the brain, surrounding tissues and the spinal cord.
In a healthy craniosacral system, this fluid will pulsate at a rate of six to 15 times a minute. Practitioners are trained to monitor this rhythm in order to detect any imbalances, after which they manipulate the bones of the head and the face to improve circulation of the fluid.
Though craniosacral therapy was developed from cranial osteopathy and is based upon many of the same principles, the process focuses on the membranes that encase the brain and the spinal cord, believing that it is they who generate the cranial rhythm. Once the practitioner has located imbalances, they will then use their hands to gently apply pressure to certain areas of the body in order to improve the fluid circulation.
Cranial osteopaths will have trained initially in osteopathy and will then follow up with a postgraduate training in cranial work. Craniosacral therapists study cranial work exclusively.
What training does a craniosacral therapist need?
Craniosacral therapy is not regulated by law in the UK, so there are no legally required qualifications or training standards someone must meet to call themselves a craniosacral therapist.
When choosing a practitioner, you may want to check their training, qualifications and whether they belong to a relevant professional association. Professional associations set their own requirements for members, which may include standards for training, professional conduct and complaints procedures.
Find a craniosacral therapist
If you’d like to explore craniosacral therapy, you can use Therapy Directory's advanced search to find a practitioner near you. Browse profiles to learn more about their experience, training and approach, and find someone who feels right for you.
