Cranial Sacral Massage (CST) is a simple procedure involving light, therapeutic touch administered to the head, neck, and other troublesome areas that prevent the exchange of cerebrospinal fluid (or what is called arterial pressure) throughout the body, targeting cranial bone movement. Certified practitioners of this therapy use selective pressures to manipulate the cranial bones, offering guests the feeling of deep relaxation during and after the session.
A 2010 study examined the effects of CST on people with fibromyalgia. A total of 92 people with the condition received either CST or a placebo therapy for 20 weeks. Results showed that those who underwent CST experienced improvements in medium-term pain.
Another study on CST and fibromyalgia suggests the therapy may reduce anxiety and improve quality of life in those with the condition.
A study on the impact of acupuncture and CST on adults with asthma reported that both therapies had potential benefits when used alongside conventional asthma treatment. However, combining CST and acupuncture showed no benefit over using either therapy alone.
According to a 2009 study, CST may improve both quality of life and the ability of people with multiple sclerosis who have lower urinary tract symptoms to empty their bladder.
What to Expect
Depending on the area(s) receiving treatment, Cranial Sacral Massage can last anywhere from 30-minutes to one hour. The Massage Therapist will usually begin at the cranial base, located at the back of the skull where stress and blockage of cerebrospinal fluid are commonly attributed to headaches. By targeting this area, the Therapist opens the tissues and alleviates pain caused in this area.
The jaw also often receives special attention during a LaVida Massage Cranial Sacral session. When there is a lack of fluid in the jaw, issues such as temporomandibular joint disorders (commonly referred to as TMJ) can occur. Cranial Sacral Massageadministered to the jaw can help to loosen the joints and allow fluid to enter it, removing tension in the jaw and alleviating the associated pain.
Another area of the body that can benefit from Cranial Sacral Massage is the sacrum – or the large, triangular bone at the base of the spine that rests like a wedge between the hip bones. The cerebrospinal fluid must flow freely from the head and neck all the way down the entire spine. By targeting the sacrum, guests can get relief for; general back pain, stress, chronic fatigue, and improved balance – and solve many other issues associated with the hips.
Because of the relaxing nature of this procedure, Cranial Sacral Massage can be beneficial for those suffering from several nervous conditions as well. Many such problems are often caused by a lack of cerebrospinal fluid reaching the brain. Getting those fluids flowing properly back to the brain can also greatly benefit those suffering from menopause, digestive problems, eye stress and pain, hyperactivity, and helps to strengthen the overall performance of the immune system.
