Craniosacral therapy, also known as craniosacral osteopathy, is a gentle, manual form of therapy that has its origins - as the name suggests - in osteopathy. It aims to correct imbalances in the body. To do this, gentle touches influence the movements of the cerebrospinal fluid and other tissues in the body. In the following article, I will explain how the therapy can work, how a treatment is carried out and what complaints it can help with. After reading, you should know what you can and cannot expect from a cranio session.
I will address these aspects below:
Table of contents
- Definition: What is craniosacral therapy?
- Procedure: How does the therapy work?
- Mode of action: How can craniosacral therapy work?
- Areas of application: When can it help?
- Possible risks and side effects
- FAQ: Frequently asked questions about Topic
1. Definition: What is craniosacral therapy?
Craniosacral therapy is a manual form of treatment that has its origins in osteopathy (William G. Sutherland). It was developed into an independent form of therapy in the 1970s by John E. Upledger. It is based on the perception of fine rhythmic waves (e.g. the craniosacral rhythm) and other movements in the body. There are various explanatory models that describe craniosacral therapy.
An early explanatory model is the concept of so-called "primary respiration". The fine, rhythmic movements in the body are associated with the circulation of the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). The skull (cranium) and sacrum are connected to each other via the meninges and spinal cord and form a system in which this cerebrospinal fluid circulates.
For me, the experience gained over many years, which describes how these fine movements can be used in manual therapy, is more important than the models themselves.
As a craniosacral therapist, I sense these subtle movements through gentle touches with my hands. This is how I “listen” to the tissue. Using specific techniques that are used on the skull, neck, sacrum and feet, among other things, blockages can be released and excessive tension in muscles, tissue and fascia can be reduced. The aim of the treatment is to support the body in its self-regulation and to come closer to or restore a healthy balance.
The method is suitable for people of all ages and is used to help with a wide range of complaints. However, for children, toddlers and infants, craniosacral therapists should have special training and years of experience.
2. Process: How does the therapy work?
For me, a typical craniosacral therapy session begins with an introductory and anamnesis interview, which can last 10-30 minutes. The patient then lies comfortably on a massage table and this is where the actual treatment begins: With gentle touches on certain parts of the body, e.g. on the head, feet and spine, I sense tensions and movements in the body. Gentle impulses stimulate the craniosacral system and, ideally, the body's own regulatory processes, e.g. of the nervous system, begin (more on this below).
A treatment usually takes between 60 and 120 minutes. A therapy usually consists of several sessions, as this allows more lasting results to be achieved. It is helpful for both patient and therapist if light and comfortable clothing is worn during treatment. Trousers are generally better than a skirt. Applications on clothing are not ideal as they can get in the way during treatment.
In some cases, a medical examination may be necessary beforehand. After the treatment, I recommend planning some rest. In the case of my practice on Fraunhoferstrasse, a walk along the nearby Isar is a good option. In particular, you should avoid taking part in hectic traffic as the nervous system is not in an appropriate state for this after the treatment. As a patient, you should take at least 30-60 minutes so that your body and mind can adjust to the changes.
3. How does craniosacral therapy work?
Craniosacral therapy has an effect on several levels of the human existance: physical, emotional, mental and spiritual. It can help to release blockages in the body and at the same time strengthen access to the body's own resources - which can lead to an improvement in general well-being.
Through gentle manual techniques, the therapy can support overall health and promote vitality. The musculoskeletal system in particular can benefit from the treatment, as it can help to release excessive tension (e.g. in the shoulders and back).
In addition, craniosacral therapy can have a harmonizing effect on other body systems, including the organs, the hormonal system, the lymphatic system and the nervous system. This harmonization potentially leads to a better balance within the body and supports its self-healing powers and self-regulation (e.g. of an overstrained nervous system).
Another important aspect is the promotion of self-awareness through craniosacral bodywork. This deeper connection to one's own body can enable the patient to develop a better understanding of their own needs and limits (physical and psychological).
Finally, craniosacral therapy can have a balancing effect on the autonomic nervous system. This often leads to deep relaxation, which can bring relief not only on a physical level, but also emotionally and mentally.
It is assumed that the craniosacral system interacts with the following body systems:
- Nervous system
- Musculoskeletal system
- Vascular system
- Lymphatic system
- Endocrine system
- Respiratory system
4. Areas of application: When can craniosacral therapy help?
Craniosacral therapy is used for a variety of complaints and illnesses. Since it can affect physical as well as emotional and mental problems, it has a wide range of applications. The most common complaints that therapy can help with include:
Physical symptoms and complaints
- Disorders of the nervous system:
This includes neuropathic pain, nerve irritations and problems associated with an imbalance in the autonomic nervous system. - Back, shoulder and neck complaints:
Tension, poor posture and chronic pain in these areas in particular can be alleviated by therapy. - Whiplash:
For patients who suffer from the consequences of whiplash after an accident, craniosacral therapy offers various treatment approaches that can lead to improvement. These can also be used for whiplash injuries that occurred a long time ago. - Headaches, migraines, jaw problems and sinusitis:
The gentle techniques help to relieve tension in the skull area, which can have a positive effect on chronic headaches, migraines and jaw misalignments. - Eye problems:
Stress-related visual impairments or other eye problems can also be positively influenced by craniosacral treatments. - Spine and joint problems:
Craniosacral therapy can also have an effect on the musculoskeletal system. This can support the development of healthier movement patterns and prevent chronic spinal and joint problems. - Organ diseases and digestive problems:
The harmonizing effect on the internal organs can also have a positive effect on chronic organ problems and digestive problems. - Physical and emotional consequences of injuries, operations and infections:
The gentle techniques of craniosacral therapy support the healing process after traumatic experiences and surgical interventions.
Psychosomatic & hormonal complaints
- Stress, sleep problems, exhaustion, depression and burnout:
By balancing the nervous system and the deeply relaxing effect, the therapy can lead to more inner peace and serenity. - Menopause and menstrual complaints:
For women in the menopause or with hormonal imbalances, the treatment can be a relief. - Hyperactivity in children and unclear developmental disorders:
Even children with hyperactivity or developmental delays can benefit from the gentle effects of craniosacral bodywork. - Concentration problems and learning difficulties:
The therapy can help to improve cognitive abilities and concentration through its calming and balancing effect. The situation can also be improved by reducing physical tension. - Anxiety and traumatic experiences:
People who suffer from anxiety or the consequences of traumatic experiences can restore or strengthen the connection to their body through craniosacral therapy. A combination with psychotherapeutic methods in the form of craniosacral body psychotherapy is also recommended here.
Note on the Heilmittelwerbegesetz (§3 No. 1)
The treatment method presented is an alternative procedure that is not scientifically recognized. All information about possible properties, effects and indications is based on the experience and knowledge within this method itself.
5. Risks and side effects
Craniosacral therapy is considered to be low-risk. In rare cases, symptoms may initially worsen. People with acute head injuries, healing bone fractures, after surgical interventions or with serious illnesses should definitely seek medical advice before treatment. If necessary, I will obtain a second medical opinion from your GP or a specialist. We will discuss the exact procedure in the anamnesis interview that takes place before every craniotherapy session.
6. FAQ: Frequently asked questions about craniosacral therapy
Usually not, but there are exceptions and special cases. Private health insurance or supplementary insurance offers reimbursement options. It is best to find out more directly from your health insurance company.
Craniosacral therapy is one of the three pillars of osteopathy. This method is specifically aimed at the so-called craniosacral system, a system that provides an explanation for the craniosacral rhythm in the body. It can be defined as a recently recognized functional physiological system. Osteopathy, on the other hand, is a more general term and covers all physical systems - from the skeleton to the lymphatic system - across various sub-areas (e.g. fascial, visceral, craniosacral osteopathy). Craniosacral therapy can also have an effect on all other systems, but this effect is sometimes indirect.
The craniosacral system is a concept that refers to the structures and functions around the skull (cranium), the spine and the sacrum. It is assumed that these areas are connected to one another via the connective tissue and have an influence on the so-called "craniosacral rhythm". Upledger's explanatory model was that this rhythm comes from the circulation of the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) that surrounds the brain and spinal cord.
It should be noted, however, that this is only one model to explain this rhythm. The craniosacral system is not clearly defined. In fact, this is just one model of many that tries to explain the phenomena that craniosacral therapy works with. Craniosacral therapy is, strictly speaking, a collection of techniques, methods and possible effects related to these phenomena.
A craniosacral treatment usually takes between 60 and 120 minutes. For lasting success, several sessions at intervals of one to three weeks are usually recommended. After each session, some time should be planned for relaxation or a walk. My practice is strategically well located and invites you to linger on Munich's Isar beach at the Wittelsbacher Bridge.
Yes, craniosacral therapy is often used for back, shoulder and neck problems. It can help to bring the musculoskeletal system and tissue structures back into balance.
Side effects rarely occur. However, there may be a short-term worsening ("initial worsening") of the symptoms if the body is temporarily "torn" out of homeostasis by the treatment. This can lead to temporary exhaustion as well as sore muscles or joint problems. Craniosacral therapy can also have an effect on your mood. Read the article on the subject of craniosacral body psychotherapy.
In Germany, "Heilpraktiker" (= license to practice medicine with specific restrictions), doctors and appropriately certified osteopaths are allowed to use craniosacral therapy. It is advisable to ensure that the therapist has thorough training in this technique. I have completed full training with subsequent supervision and assistance.
To receive a craniosacral treatment, in my practice on Fraunhoferstrasse or at your home, you need to schedule an appointment. You can contact me at any time using the contact form or leave me a message on the answering machine. For data protection reasons, I do not currently support automatic booking systems from third-party providers.
The costs for craniosacral therapy are usually between 90 and 180 euros per session and are based on the treatment time. Unless otherwise agreed, these costs are billed according to the fee schedule for alternative practitioners (GeBüH). It should be noted that statutory health insurance companies do not normally cover the costs of "Heilpraktiker"s - private or additional insurances specifically for alternative practicioners may cover the cost in full or parts of it. Unfortunately this cannot be guaranteed. You can find more information on prices and billing in my terms and conditions.
Any intervention in a functioning system causes a change in this system. Any intervention in the body can mean an intervention in the body's homeostasis. What does that mean? The body has become accustomed to a certain state and the body wants to maintain this state. The intervention disrupts it.
Craniosacral therapy can have an effect on physical balance. Even when ill, the body tries to maintain homeostasis. However, this is not always beneficial, just as stable as possible. We know this from protective postures after injuries. If we abandon a familiar protective posture, this is often painful until a better posture is found. The transition from a familiar unfavorable homeostasis to a more favorable one can lead to discomfort or pain.
Further information on therapeutic support: Would you like to find out more about craniosacral therapy and the treatment process? Then please contact me using the contact form. If you leave me your telephone number, I will be happy to call you back. Or you can make an appointment directly at my naturopathic practice on Fraunhoferstrasse. Please note that I only decide which treatment method is suitable after a detailed anamnesis.
Yours, Bernd Hußnätter