What is Craniosacral Therapy (CST)?

Craniosacral Therapy is a gentle, hands-on method of evaluating and enhancing the function of the craniosacral system (the bones, nerves, fluids and connective tissue of the cranium and spine). Using an extremely soft touch, practitioners release restrictions in the craniosacral system to relieve pain, increase mobility, and regulate the nervous system.

When might a baby benefit from CST?

CST addresses a wide variety of infants’ complaints and circumstances, including: breast/chestfeeding difficulties; poor latch; pre/post care for tongue-tie revision; torticollis (favors turning head to one side); plagiocephaly (flattening of the skull); crooked nose or face; plugged tear duct; colic; spitting up; constipation; high sensitivity; excessive crying; difficulty relaxing; cesarean birth; vacuum assistance; unusually fast or slow birth. CST can also be used as a “well-baby tune-up,” to help facilitate baby’s natural ability to self-heal and self-regulate.

What does a CST treatment look like?

Appointments take place in my office or in the comfort of your own home. Sessions are slow-paced and non-invasive. Baby remains fully clothed, and can be asleep, awake or feeding. Therapeutic touch consists of gentle “nudges” (the amount of pressure used is about the same pressure exerted by the weight of a nickel) and light massage. Many babies babble, wiggle and stretch during treatment, while others fall quietly asleep. Occasionally a baby will cry, not because the treatment hurts or tickles, but because they are working something through their system. If a baby does cry, I always stop treatment and get parental approval before proceeding. At the end of the session, I will demonstrate massage techniques and exercises that parents can use with baby on a daily basis at home.

How many times will a baby need to be treated?

Some babies experience resolution after just one or two treatments, while others see change after a series of 4-8 sessions. During your first treatment, I will discuss realistic expectations and outline treatment options.

CST is great for parents, too!

Pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum recovery are a time of enormous physical and emotional transition for parents. CST addresses many of the discomforts that often arise, including: muscular tension, neck and shoulder pain, pelvic pain, fatigue, anxiety and overwhelm.

Safe, gentle touch enhances a parent’s physical and emotional well-being as they adapt to the experience and demands of life with a baby. The whole family benefits when parents receive focused attention just for themselves.

Lisa Piediscalzi, L.Ac., RCST, IBCLC
Lisa is an acupuncturist, craniosacral therapist and lactation consultant, providing holistic care since 1994.
Home visits available.
831.334.7250