Gentle Touch. Profound Relief.
Cranial Sacral Therapy
Cranial Sacral Therapy (CST)
Gentle Touch. Profound Relief.
What Is Cranial Sacral Therapy?
Cranial Sacral Therapy (CST) is a gentle, hands-on manual therapy that releases tension in the body by working with the craniosacral system — the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord.
Using light touch (typically less than 5 grams of pressure), a trained practitioner evaluates and restores balance in the rhythm and movement of this system. By addressing subtle restrictions in the fascia and nervous system, CST helps restore the body’s ability to self-regulate, relieve pain, and promote relaxation.
Originally developed by osteopathic physician Dr. John Upledger, CST is now widely used by massage therapists, manual osteopaths, chiropractors, and physical therapists.
What Does CST Help With?
CST is used to treat a wide range of physical and emotional conditions by supporting the central nervous system and improving fluid mobility throughout the body.
Common concerns supported by CST:
TMJ dysfunction (jaw tension & clicking)
Headaches and migraines
Vertigo and dizziness
Torticollis (in infants and adults)
Chronic neck and back pain
Nervous system dysregulation
Scoliosis and postural tension
Stress, anxiety, and trauma-related tension
Sinus pressure and congestion
Digestive issues related to vagus nerve irritation
Post-concussion symptoms
Infant colic, latch issues, and sleep difficulties
Who Benefits from Cranial Sacral Therapy?
CST is safe and suitable for all ages — from newborns to seniors — because of its non-invasive and calming approach. It’s especially beneficial for:
Individuals experiencing chronic stress or trauma
Clients who are sensitive to deeper manual therapies
Infants and children experiencing birth trauma, colic, or developmental delays
Those recovering from head or spinal injuries
Anyone seeking to support their nervous system balance or improve resilience
Many clients report feeling deeply relaxed during a session and notice improvements in sleep, mood, and physical tension after just a few treatments.
How Does a Session Work?
During a CST session, clients lie fully clothed on a treatment table while the practitioner gently places their hands on specific areas of the head, spine, sacrum, or abdomen. Subtle techniques are used to assess and support the body’s natural craniosacral rhythm, releasing restrictions and improving the flow of cerebrospinal fluid.
Sessions typically last 45–60 minutes and may be combined with other therapies such as manual osteopathy or massage.
Clinical Support & References
CST has gained traction in both integrative medicine and bodywork communities for its role in treating conditions involving the central nervous system and somatic-emotional health.
Upledger JE, Vredevoogd JD. Craniosacral Therapy. Eastland Press; 1983.
Green C, Martin CW, Bassett K, Kazanjian A. "A systematic review of craniosacral therapy: biological plausibility, assessment reliability and clinical effectiveness." Complementary Therapies in Medicine. 1999 Dec;7(4):201–7.
Jakel A, Hauenschild P. "A systematic review to evaluate the clinical benefits of craniosacral therapy." Complementary Therapies in Medicine. 2012 Dec;20(6):456–65.
While more rigorous clinical studies are needed, many clients and practitioners report measurable improvement in symptoms, particularly for headache disorders, TMJ, anxiety, and chronic pain.
Interested in Trying CST?
Cranial Sacral Therapy is one of our most requested treatments at Avalon Wellness & Performance for its ability to create calm, restore balance, and support deep healing.