Displaying items by tag: Frequently Asked Questions

Friday, 22 February 2019 10:07

Craniosacral Therapy: Frequently Asked Questions

What is Craniosacral Therapy?

Craniosacral Therapy, or CST, is an alternative form of massage which utilizes a gentle hands-on, non-invasive approach in order to manipulate and release tension in the bones of the head, spinal column, and sacrum. Craniosacral Therapy primarily addresses asymmetry in the fluid and membranes that protect the spinal cord and brain, while simultaneously relieving pain and dysfunction to improve whole-body health and performance.

Originally pioneered and developed by Osteopathic Physician John E. Upledger while at Michigan State University, CST regulates and manipulates the flow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), which protects the brain and spinal cord from trauma.

How Does Craniosacral Therapy Work?

Our bodies endure stresses and strains on a daily basis, which take a heavy toll on our bodies. These stressors can cause body tissues to tighten and distort the craniosacral system, which means our central nervous system can't operate as well.

To alleviate these stress points, our practitioner at Wayfare Wellness, Sarah, uses non-invasive soft touch massage techniques around the craniosacral system. By using these light-touch techniques, our practitioner can identify the rhythm of your craniosacral system, along with any tense areas, and help align the flow of CSF. These gentle methods help our massage therapist find your specifically blocked areas of stress or obstruction in CSF flow.

What Conditions Can Craniosacral Therapy Treat?

Since the conception of craniosacral therapy and massage in the 1970's, CST has been found to be effective in addressing numerous physiological issues, primarily associated with blockages in the craniosacral system. These conditions include:

  • Concussions and Traumatic Brain Injuires

  • Migraines and Headaches

  • Chronic Neck and Back Pain

  • Brain and Spinal Cord Injuries

  • Autism

  • Stress and Tension-Related Disorders

With research continuing to back up this innovative massage therapy, we're only beginning to scratch the surface of what conditions CST can treat.

How Many Craniosacral Therapy Sessions Will I Need?

Craniosacral therapy sessions are done while you are fully clothed and the sessions range from 45 minutes to more than an hour. Each individual will respond differently to CST and some conditions may require more CST than others. The number of sessions needed varies widely and depend greatly upon your own conditions, stressors, and comfort level.

What Will I Experience After A Session?

Just as each individual will respond differently to the therapeutic experience, the results can vary widely as well. You could leave the session in a sleepy relaxed state or you may leave with limitless energy. Past participants have stated that they felt a decrease in pain and tension, while others have felt increased functionality or focus immediately after the session. Sometimes these effects will develop gradually over the next few days rather than directly following the session.

Regardless of what you experience, CST helps the body resume its natural healing processes and these improvements can continue for weeks following the session.

How Can I Book My First CST Session?

You can schedule an appointment at our downtown Denver office today and learn how craniosacral therapy can help you!

If you have any other questions that weren't answered here, please reach out and we'll answer them as quickly as possible.

Published in Massage