Description of a Session
A massage table is comfortable for cranial work. Therapists feel that through the use of gentle pressure they are able to free restricted movement of the bones or other tissues. Through cradling of the head or sacrum, the practitioner senses areas of restriction and assists the body in releasing these holding patterns and re-establishing its innate ability to maintain and heal itself. It is felt that as proper movement of the bones becomes re-established, the cerebrospinal fluid will be able to flow more freely again. Sessions can last forty minutes to an hour.

Course of Treatment
The degree of imbalance determines the number of sessions, and each patient’s individual response to treatment is the best guide. However, the practitioner can to some degree predict the quantity of sessions needed and how long they should last.

Side Effects
Depending on the level of reorganization that has occurred during a session, one may sense shifts in states that can produce lightheadedness or slight disorientation. Alterations can continue long after the session has ended and clients may sense motion and/or mild discomfort related to this.

Safety Issues
Cranial therapy is a gentle, non-invasive approach that respects the individual’s process of change, generally following their pace rather than leading or pushing for results. Because of this it is quite safe, even for infants and the elderly. It is contraindicated, however, in certain conditions such as aneurysm, intracranial hemorrhage, skull fracture and other conditions where altering intracranial fluid pressure is not advisable.

Other Modalities that Work Well with this Approach
Cranial Therapy is a complete form of treatment by itself. It will, however, often be used in conjunction with other therapeutic modalities. Chiropractors, osteopaths, acupuncturists, massage therapists and other body workers employ the cranial concept in their work. Essential oils are sometimes used.

Content last modified on Sep 4, 2003