Craniosacral Therapy (CST) for Babies

As a parent, ensuring your baby’s health and comfort is your top priority. If your little one has been struggling with issues like excessive crying, difficulty feeding, or discomfort from birth trauma, you may have come across a gentle and non-invasive therapy called craniosacral therapy (CST). Rooted in osteopathy, CST focuses on the craniosacral system—a network of membranes and fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. Its aim is to promote balance, ease tension, and support natural healing, making it an increasingly popular choice among parents.

What is Craniosacral Therapy (CST)?

Craniosacral therapy (CST) is a hands-on approach that uses very light touch to assess and enhance the functioning of the nervous system. Practitioners gently apply light pressures to areas like the skull, spine, and pelvis to release restrictions in the flow of cerebrospinal fluid and restore normal nervous system functioning. For babies, these gentle adjustments can help address common concerns, such as discomfort caused by birth trauma or feeding difficulties, and promote overall well-being.

Unlike massage or chiropractic care, CST involves pressure so light that many babies simply relax or even nap during sessions. The goal is to support your baby’s natural ability to heal and self-regulate by relieving tension or imbalances.

Benefits of Craniosacral Therapy for Babies

CST offers numerous potential benefits for infants, supported by emerging research and clinical practice:

Improved Sleep and Reduced Crying

A 2019 study published in Complementary Therapies in Medicine found that CST significantly reduced crying hours and improved sleep in babies. For example, on average, babies receiving CST cried nearly 3 fewer hours per day within two weeks of starting therapy compared to those in the control group. Better sleep patterns followed, providing relief for both babies and their caregivers.

Relief for Colic and Digestive Issues

Colic is one of the most common concerns among parents of newborns. CST may help reduce colic symptoms by easing tension in the baby’s digestive system and soothing the nervous system.

Support for Birth Trauma Recovery

The birthing process, whether via natural vaginal delivery or C-section, can place significant pressure on a baby’s head and body. CST can gently address lingering tension, helping to resolve issues like irritability or feeding difficulties.

Help with Plagiocephaly (Flat Head Syndrome)

A study conducted at Western Michigan University highlighted CST’s potential for treating plagiocephaly (flattened areas on a baby’s head). By addressing asymmetries in the head and neck, CST may encourage a more balanced development.

When Might CST Be Recommended for Babies?

CST can be a valuable option for a variety of infant health concerns, including:

• Birth Trauma: Babies born via prolonged labor, forceps, or vacuum extraction often experience residual tension that CST can help alleviate.
• Feeding or Latching Challenges: Difficulty breastfeeding might stem from tightness in the jaw or neck that CST can address.
• Digestive Issues and Colic: If your baby struggles with gas, reflux, or excessive crying, CST may bring relief.
• Plagiocephaly and Torticollis: These conditions, which affect head and neck alignment, often respond well to gentle CST techniques.

What Happens During a CST Session for Babies?

For parents unfamiliar with craniosacral therapy, knowing what to expect during a session can help ease any anxieties. CST sessions for infants are designed to be gentle, comforting, and tailored to each baby’s specific needs. Here’s a step-by-step guide to what typically happens:

• Initial Consultation: The practitioner will start by talking with you about your baby’s health history and any specific concerns, such as feeding issues, colic, or birth trauma. This conversation helps the practitioner understand your baby’s needs and create a personalized treatment plan.
• Assessment: During the session, the practitioner will use their hands to lightly palpate your baby’s body, focusing on areas like the skull, neck, and spine. They will assess for any restrictions or imbalances in the craniosacral system.
• Gentle Treatment: Using light pressure—no more than the weight of a nickel—the practitioner will make small adjustments to release tension and encourage the proper flow of cerebrospinal fluid. Babies often respond with noticeable relaxation, and some may even fall asleep during the session.
• Parent Involvement: You are encouraged to be present and engaged throughout the session. Holding your baby or providing soothing reassurance can help them feel secure.

Common Questions About CST Sessions:

Does CST hurt? Absolutely not. The touch is incredibly gentle, and most babies find it soothing.

How long does a session last? A typical CST session for infants depends on the baby’s tolerance and needs. If they are seeing a specially trained pediatric chiropractor who is able to gently and effectively clear subluxations affecting the spine and nervous system prior to applying craniosacral therapy, the treatments can be more effective and require less time than traditional craniosacral therapy alone which may last up to 30-60 minutes.

How many sessions are needed? This varies based on the issue being treated. Many parents report improvement after just a few sessions, though chronic concerns may require ongoing care.

Who Performs CST for Infants?

It’s important to choose a qualified practitioner for craniosacral therapy to ensure the safety and efficacy of the treatment. CST for infants is typically performed by:

• Pediatric Physical Therapists: Some are trained in CST techniques as part of their specialized education.
• Licensed Massage Therapists: Some massage therapists undergo additional training to provide CST for babies.
• Chiropractors with training in Craniosacral therapy & Sacro-occipital technique: Pediatric chiropractors like Dr. Chrisi Kelly at Novo Chiropractic who are experienced in treating infants often include CST & SOT as part of their holistic approach. Many parents report that the combination of gentle pediatric chiropractic adjustments followed by craniosacral therapy to be a very effective combination.

While some pediatricians are familiar with CST, it is less common for them to perform the therapy themselves. Always check the credentials and experience of the practitioner you choose, and feel free to ask questions about their background in infant care.

Craniosacral therapy offers a gentle and holistic approach to addressing common concerns in infants, from colic to feeding challenges and birth trauma recovery. For many parents, CST provides a sense of empowerment, knowing there is a non-invasive option to support their baby’s well-being.

If you’re curious about CST and how it might benefit your baby, consider scheduling a consultation with a trained professional. Dr. Chrisi Kelly, our in-house chiropractor & licensed midwife, is ready to guide you through the process and answer any questions you might have.