Craniosacral Therapy
Gentle therapy targeting the skull, spine, and sacrum for headaches and chronic pain
What Is Craniosacral Therapy?
Craniosacral therapy is a gentle, hands-on treatment that focuses on the fascia — the connective tissue surrounding and supporting every structure in your body. Through subtle manipulations of the skull (cranium), spine, and sacrum, this therapy influences the dural membranes that envelop your brain and spinal cord.
Key characteristics of this approach:
- Uses extremely light touch — typically no more than the weight of a nickel
- Detects and releases restrictions in the fascial system
- Ideal for conditions too sensitive for other treatments
- Addresses headaches, post-concussion symptoms, chronic pain, and insomnia
At At Ease Physio in South Surrey, our physiotherapists have advanced training in craniosacral techniques. Whether you’re dealing with persistent headaches, recovering from a concussion, or struggling with chronic pain that hasn’t responded to other treatments, craniosacral therapy may provide the relief you’ve been seeking.
To understand the anatomy behind this approach, read about the dural layers of the central nervous system. For parents interested in gentle care for infants, explore our article on hands-on care for babies. You may also find our explanation of polyvagal theory and manual therapy helpful for understanding how gentle touch affects nervous system regulation.
- Best for
- Chronic headaches, post-concussion recovery, persistent pain
- Typical course
- 4–8 sessions depending on condition
- Coverage
- Extended health benefits (physiotherapy)
Who is this for?
- Experience chronic headaches that haven't responded to other treatments
- Are recovering from a concussion and need gentle nervous system support
- Have persistent pain that traditional approaches haven't relieved
- Prefer or require gentle, non-invasive treatment due to sensitivity or previous trauma
- Want to address physical symptoms connected to stress, anxiety, or emotional tension
Conditions and concerns
- Headaches and migraines
- Post-concussion symptoms
- Chronic pain conditions
- TMJ dysfunction
- Insomnia and sleep issues
- Stress and anxiety
- Neck and back pain
How it helps
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Headache & Migraine Relief
Releases tension in membranes surrounding the brain and reduces cranial restrictions
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Concussion Recovery Support
Normalizes cranial rhythm and reduces central nervous system inflammation
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Chronic Pain Reduction
Addresses fascial restrictions at their source when other treatments haven't worked
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Improved Sleep Quality
Calms the nervous system and releases tension patterns
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Stress Reduction
Activates the parasympathetic nervous system to counteract chronic stress
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Nervous System Regulation
Balances the autonomic nervous system for appropriate alertness and rest states
What to expect
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Initial Assessment
Detailed health history and discussion of your symptoms, concerns, and treatment goals. A gentle assessment identifies areas of restriction and guides your treatment plan.
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Treatment Session
Lie comfortably on a treatment table, fully clothed. Your therapist uses extremely gentle pressure on your head, spine, and sacrum to detect and release restrictions.
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Post-Treatment Care
Feel calm and relaxed after your session. Benefits may unfold over the following days. Drink plenty of water and allow yourself time to rest.
New to physiotherapy?
Start with an assessment. You do not need to choose a treatment technique.
Why choose At Ease Physio?
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Advanced Training
Our physiotherapists have completed specialized training in craniosacral therapy, ensuring skilled, effective treatment.
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Integrated Concussion Care
We combine craniosacral therapy with vestibular rehabilitation and manual therapy for comprehensive treatment.
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Gentle Approach
Our practitioners adapt their approach to meet the needs of even the most sensitive patients.
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Calm Environment
Our South Surrey clinic provides a peaceful setting conducive to deep relaxation.
Frequently asked questions
What does craniosacral therapy feel like?
How many sessions will I need?
Who can benefit from craniosacral therapy?
Is craniosacral therapy safe?
Is craniosacral therapy covered by insurance?
Seeking Gentle, Effective Relief?
If other treatments haven't worked, craniosacral therapy offers a different approach. Book a session to experience this gentle healing modality.