Even though the craniosacral system is not well known, it is central and vital to the body’s well being. This essential system protects the brain and central nervous system by a circulation of fluid, known as cerebrospinal fluid, that flows within membranes that surround the brain and spinal column. This fluid supports and nourishes the nerves within it. If any part of your baby’s craniosacral system has been compromised by events that can disrupt the flow of these fluids around the brain or spinal column–such as difficulty in pregnancy, birthing process, trauma to the head, or prolonged illnesses, among other possibilities–they may benefit from receiving craniosacral therapy.
If your baby has:
- Difficulties breast feeding, because of poor latching abilities, or a weak sucking reflex, or poor tongue control
- Food regurgitation, reflux, and excessive gag response
- Sleep disturbances
- Torticollis
- Seizure disorder
- Bowel disorders (diarrhea or constipation)
- Colic or
- Respiratory difficulties
Craniosacral therapy can help reduce the symptoms and help address the underlying causes.
How does Craniosacral Therapy Help?
Craniosacral therapy is a gentle hands-on technique to help correct the alignment of the cranial bones, aid in restoring elasticity and necessary movement of the membranes, and support the pumping action of the cerebrospinal fluid to circulate around and nourish the nervous system. Craniosacral therapy is gentle and can be a soothing experience for your baby. The parent or caregiver stays in the room with the therapist and may even participate in helping by holding the child during treatment. Craniosacral corrections are usually accomplished in a short period of time because the baby’s body is very flexible and receptive to alignment. The sooner the problem is addressed, the easier it is for proper alignment and functioning to be restored. If your baby is experiencing some of the symptoms listed above, craniosacral therapy treatments can address the part of the body that needs realignment for healing of the symptoms/difficulties to occur. If you would like to learn more about this, Patricia Hogan, a Craniosacral and Occupational Therapist who has been working with children for 18 years, will be speaking at Element Natural Healing Arts this coming month, date to be announced.