Is Craniosacral Therapy Safe For Babies?

Craniosacral Therapy (CST) can be a safe technique for babies when it is performed by a trained specialist such as the Physical Therapists here at ABove Physical Therapy.

We have been applying this relatively new treatment method to infants who have any of the following:

  • underwent a difficult delivery
  • nursing / feeding problems
  • colic
  • teething issues
  • infant reflux
  • cranial injuries (sometimes due to C-section deliveries)

According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), CST involves massaging and touching the the bones around the skull in order to minimize pain, promote growth, and help babies recover from birth trauma. – birthinjuryguide.org

Are There Any Risks Involved In Craniosacral Therapy On Babies?

Because the application method during a Craniosacral Therapy session uses a very gentle type of massage technique – the risk for injury is very minimal.  The weight of the massage techniques used in CST is about the weight of a U.S. nickle as it rests on your skin.

The most common complaint reported by individuals who have undergone Craniosacral Therapy is that of mild discomfort after the session which normally lasts about 24 hours.

Of course, a baby cannot verbalize any feelings of discomfort but they may seem more fussy and agitated after a Craniosacral Therapy session.

However, there are certain medical conditions that would prevent anyone from receiving CST:

  • a recent head injury which may have resulted in cranial bleeding or skull fractures
  • if the person has been diagnosed with an acute aneurysm
  • severe bleeding disorders

Individuals with any of these medical complications should avoid Craniosacral Therapy.

Is Craniosacral Therapy Legitimate?

In short, yes.  Craniosacral Therapy is was developed in the 1970’s by John Upledger, DO, OMM and is currently being practiced by the following trained medical professionals:

  • Physical Therapists
  • Occupational Therapists
  • Massage Therapists
  • Osteopaths
  • Chiropractors

A review of the therapists listed in the International Association of Healthcare Practitioners, there are thousands of therapists practicing CST throughout the United States.

Specific training and certifications are required in order to practice the art and science of CST and many studies continue to be conducted to document the results and many benefits that patients continue to receive from CST.

Here, at ABove Physical Therapy we can say that this treatment method has brought about very good results as reported by our patients.

What Is The Difference Between Craniosacral Therapy And Cranial Osteopathy?

Although both of these methods were developed by Osteopaths, there is a difference between Craniosacral Therapy and Cranial Osteopathy.

Generally speaking, the type of touch and manipulation performed during Cranial Osteopathy is heavier and not as gentle as Craniosacral Therapy.