Cranial sacral therapy is gentle and non-invasive using a light touch on the skull (including face and mouth), spine, and pelvic bones to stimulate the flow of cerebrospinal fluid (brain and spinal fluid). The therapy is known to relieve stress and tension.

Osteopaths were the first healthcare providers to research and implement cranial sacral therapy. It became a widespread practice in the 1970s, but has been studied and practiced for many years before that time, dating back to as early as pre-1900s. It’s believed that increased movement of the fluid between the head and the base of the lower back can offer relief for many different conditions or ailments.

The osteopath, chiropractor, and massage therapist who practices cranial sacral therapy believes the cerebrospinal fluid has a pulse, and he or she can detect the pulse and regulate it using gentle touch. The therapy is said to relieve chronic neck and back pain, stress and tension, learning disabilities, TMJ, headache, chronic fatigue, boosts the immune system, and can heal the endocrine system.

A cranial sacral therapy session can last anywhere from 30 minutes to one hour. A person might receive several treatments per week, for several weeks, to benefit from the treatment.