Craniosacral Fascial Therapy Is a Boon for Mankind

Craniosacral Fascial Therapy Is a Boon for Mankind
8 min read

Craniosacral fascial therapy (CFT) or craniosacral therapy is one of the most effective treatments for bone compression. It works on bones in the spinal column, head, and sacrum (a bone present in our lower back). 

CFT is a non-invasive procedure that works by applying gentle pressure on the patient’s back, neck, and head. The therapy helps in relieving pain and stress resulting from compression. Therefore, the procedure can help to manage and treat multiple medical conditions. 

Experts believe that it is possible to allow the cerebrospinal fluid to flow normally in our central nervous system (CNS) by gently manipulating the skull bones. According to them, gentle and methodical manipulation of these bones helps in removing blockages resulting in an abnormal flow of the cerebrospinal fluid. This, in turn, strengthens our body and allows it to heal easily.   

Most modern-day physical therapists, massage therapists, chiropractors, and osteopaths tend to offer craniosacral therapy. You can get the treatment as part of a multi-modality treatment module or can visit the therapist just to undergo CFT. 

The number of sessions you will need to undergo depends on the purpose for which you are seeking the treatment. Most patients need three to ten sessions of therapy to get rid of symptoms. Your therapist may also ask you to visit him/her for a few maintenance sessions. Read on to know what makes CFT the chosen therapy for multiple health conditions. 

When Should You Undergo CFT?

The human craniosacral system features various sections of the sacrum, spinal cord, and brain that are responsible for pumping cerebrospinal fluid. For your information, the cerebrospinal fluid is a runny substance present in our body’s (which includes our spine and brain) fascia network. The primary functions of cerebrospinal fluid include detoxification, nutrient delivery, and shock absorption. 

These functions should be enough for you to understand how crucial it is for the human body to have a proper flow of cerebrospinal fluid. Craniosacral fascial therapy is capable of correcting problems that may prevent the cerebrospinal fluid from flowing normally. This automatically makes CFT extremely popular among individuals experiencing related health issues.

As the fascia contains sensory neurons, releasing tension and strain from the tissue lets our nervous system relax, reboot, and regenerate. The spinal cord and brain, which are the two main units of our central nervous system, are responsible for almost every function of the human body. So, when there’s a disruption in the flow of the cerebrospinal fluid pain and system malfunctions are common outcomes. 

Experts performing CFT slowly work into the patient’s fascia and release adhesions. This results in improved brain function and optimal mobility. Once the craniosacral system becomes loose, the cerebrospinal fluid will start flowing freely and reverse the health issues resulting from blockage. 

Top therapists use CFT to soothe both physical and emotional stress. They also use the procedure to release or ease restrictions in the nerved, neck, and head. Some of the health conditions CFT can treat successfully are:

  • Sinus infection 
  • Headaches and migraine 
  • Neck pain 
  • Scoliosis
  • Insomnia 
  • Constipation 
  • Fibromyalgia 
  • Recurring ear infections 
  • TMJ
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder 
  • Pregnancy-related health issues 
  • Anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders  
  • Dyslexia 
  • Autism 

Experienced CFT practitioners use the procedure for treating a range of other conditions. The procedure is extremely useful in treating speech impairment in stroke patients. You can undergo the therapy even when diagnosed with a neurodegenerative disease. CFT is also an effective therapy for epilepsy. 

The best thing about CFT is that it works equally well on people of all ages. You can use it even to treat children, toddlers, and infants. 

Over the years, researchers have conducted several studies to determine the actual efficacy of the therapy. Most of them have come up with evidence supporting the procedure’s ability to relieve tension and stress. 

Some studies have also confirmed that doctors can use the procedure effectively as part of the treatment plans for various illnesses. In other words, many studies have found that CFT can create magic when used along with conventional treatments. 

According to a 2012 study, CFT is instrumental in reducing the intensity of symptoms in patients experiencing severe migraine attacks. A study conducted in 2010 revealed that a few sessions of the therapy can eliminate common fibromyalgia symptoms like anxiety and pain. Another study revealed that individuals suffering from fibromyalgia can opt for CFT if they want to improve their quality of life. 

CFT is capable of managing asthma symptoms effectively. A recent study has shown that using CFT, acupuncture, and conventional allopathic treatment for asthma together can successfully eliminate most symptoms of the disease.   

A study conducted in 2009, on the other hand, showed that CFT can be beneficial for multiple sclerosis patients experiencing difficulty in emptying their bladder. 

Are There Any Side Effects of CFT? 

If the person performing CFT is a licensed practitioner, you are unlikely to experience any serious side effects. There might be mild discomfort for some time; however, that will not bother you for more than a day. However, if you end up visiting a therapist who lacks experience and knowledge, your side effects might be more serious. To prevent such occurrences, choose a trusted clinic that offers craniosacral therapy in Hawaii. 

Additionally, you must remember that people with certain health problems cannot undergo CFT. These include individuals diagnosed with major bleeding disorders, blood clots, cerebral swelling, and aneurysms. This is also not the treatment of choice for people with structural defects in their cerebellum. A common example of such defects is Arnold-Chiari malformation. You should also avoid getting CFT if you are recovering from a traumatic head injury. 

Ideally, you should consult a doctor before undergoing CFT. Only a medical practitioner can tell you whether you are the right candidate for this therapy. 

About the CFT Procedure 

If you are undergoing the procedure in a well-known facility, you will need a prior appointment for every session. On the day of the therapy, you will have to appear at the facility on time. The practitioner may ask you to inform him/her about the symptoms you are experiencing currently before the start of every session. You may also need to share details of all pre-existing diseases you have. 

The treatment usually doesn’t need the patient to remove any of his/her clothes. So, make sure you wear a comfortable outfit on the day of your appointment. 

Each session of CFT typically lasts around an hour. However, the duration may vary depending on your requirements. The practitioner will ask you to lie down on the massage table with your back on the table. The procedure can begin from any part of your body, i.e., your feet, head, or any section in between. The practitioner will be the one deciding on the starting point. 

The therapist may use tools like low lighting and soft music to promote maximum relaxation. During the therapy, the practitioner will use gentle pressure to identify the disruptions in your fascial system. 

The patient may have various sensations during the course of the treatment. Examples include:

  • A feeling of deep relaxation 
  • Sending pulsations 
  • Numbing sensation 
  • Cold or hot sensation 
  • Sleepiness followed by deep sleep, and more 

Final Words 

If you are looking to undergo craniosacral therapy in Hawaii, begin by identifying a trusted clinic offering the service. Don’t forget to bring all your reports and prescriptions with you when visiting your CFT practitioner for the first time. This is essential as the expert will not be able to plan your treatment without knowing your exact problem. Also, share all the symptoms you experience with the expert. 

If the clinic you visit is one of the best Hawaii has, the practitioner will first check your medical history to find out whether you are eligible to undergo CFT. The easiest way of spotting the best in the business is by reading unbiased reviews online. 

In case you have found a mistake in the text, please send a message to the author by selecting the mistake and pressing Ctrl-Enter.
Comments (0)

    No comments yet

You must be logged in to comment.

Sign In / Sign Up