If you have a health condition that's exacerbated by stress or tension, craniosacral therapy (CST) may be the answer. Much like massage therapy, this noninvasive treatment takes a hands-on approach to promoting wellness. By applying gentle pressure to the connective tissue surrounding the central nervous system (CNS), CST can stimulate the body's natural healing process. Here's what you should know about this therapy should you be considering it. 

4 FAQ About Craniosacral Therapy 

What happens during CST?

CST is similar to massage therapy. During the session, your practitioner will set the lights low and put on soothing music to promote relaxation. Then, they will apply gentle pressure—no more than about 5 grams—to manipulate the connective tissue, or fascia, in your head, neck, and upper back. Manipulating the fascia clears blockages that are keeping fluids from flowing with ease through the CNS. 

What kinds of conditions can CST help relieve?

Craniosacral therapy enhances the function of the central nervous system. Since the CNS plays a role in virtually every bodily function, CST can relieve different kinds of conditions, such as post-traumatic stress disorder and fibromyalgia. 

After optimizing the fluid around the brain and spinal cord, the body as a whole is better able to overcome any compromised areas of its various systems. 

What are the benefits of undergoing CST?

Undergoing craniosacral therapy yields both physical and mental benefits. At the physical level, it can relieve pain, enhance mobility, and increase flexibility. It can also combat fatigue and address a host of orthopedic problems. 

CST can also improve concentration, treat learning disabilities, reduce anxiety, and relieve depression. Naturally, these and other benefits will have a major impact on your overall quality of life.

How many sessions of CST do you need before you notice an improvement?

Since every patient is unique, there's no universal way to apply CST. Most patients, however, notice at least some improvement in their symptoms after a single session. 

Whether you need more than one appointment will depend on the severity and causes of the underlying conditions you're hoping to address. 

The friendly providers at Hands-On Health Massage & Physical Therapy are equipped to treat all kinds of conditions using craniosacral therapy. Located in High Point, NC, this practice is backed by more than 30 years of experience in the health and wellness field. Offering a broad range of treatments, from massage therapy to lymphatic balancing, they create an individualized treatment plan for each and every patient. To learn more about their services, visit their website. To make an appointment, call (336) 906-2040.